The European Parliament has voted to allow passengers to bring a small carry-on bag weighing up to 7kg free of charge on all flights within the European Union, including on budget airlines. The proposal, approved on 24 June, would permit one cabin bag measuring up to 100cm and an under-seat personal item of 40x30x15cm at no extra cost.
The law still requires approval from 55% of EU member states, with negotiations beginning in July 2025. If adopted, the rules would apply to all flights within the EU and routes to and from the bloc. 'Today's vote marks an important step toward fairer and more transparent travel,' said Matteo Ricci, vice-chair of the EU Committee on Transport and Tourism.
The move follows a €179m fine imposed on five budget airlines by Spain's Consumer Rights Ministry in November 2024 for what it called 'abusive practices' regarding hand luggage charges. The proposal is part of broader efforts to increase passenger protections, including a ban on seat selection fees for children aged 12 and under, and requirements for full cost disclosure at booking.
However, airline industry representatives oppose the change. Ourania Georgoutsakou, Managing Director of Airlines For Europe, argued: 'Forcing a mandatory trolley bag strips passengers of that choice and obliges them to pay for services they may not want or need.' Critics warn that the cost of baggage will be folded into ticket prices, raising costs for all travellers.
