Say Goodbye to Carry-On Fees: EU to Make Hand Luggage Free for All Passengers

What You Need to Know:

The European Parliament’s transport committee has approved a proposal to prohibit airlines from charging additional fees for passengers’ cabin luggage on flights within the EU.

Key Details:

• Travelers will be allowed to bring one cabin bag (up to 7 kg) and one personal item (like a backpack or handbag) without extra charges.
• The plan also includes standardizing dimensions—the cabin bag must be no more than 100 cm in total measurement (length + width + height) .

Why It Matters:

• Airlines, particularly low-cost carriers, currently generate significant revenue from ancillary fees—some report hundreds of millions in carry-on charges each quarter.
• Industry groups warn that banning these charges could lead to higher base ticket prices and might reduce travel-choice flexibility.

Broader Package of Passenger Protections:

The vote also advanced other reforms, including:

• A unified compensation and refund claim form
• Clear criteria defining “extraordinary circumstances” (e.g., war, natural disasters) to determine when airlines may be exempt from compensation.
• Proposals to ensure children under 12 sit with their guardians, and passengers with reduced mobility can travel with an accompanying person at no extra cost.

What’s Next:

• The measure now moves to negotiations between the European Parliament and member states via the Council.
• If finalized, it would apply to all flights departing or arriving within the EU, and potentially include UK flights under EU-based carriers.

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🔍 What This Means for You:

• Easier budgeting: hand luggage becomes part of the base fare, eliminating surprise fees.
• More transparency when booking flights—no more last-minute baggage charges.
• Potential slight rise in ticket prices overall, depending on how airlines restructure their fees.