The European Commission has announced new rules that will require airlines such as Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air to include a small carry-on bag in the basic fare from 2027. The change, part of a broader update to EU air passenger rights, means passengers flying within the EU will no longer be charged extra for bringing a small case on board.
New EU Rules on Hand Luggage
Airlines must display fares including a standard carry-on bag (40cm x 30cm x 15cm) by default before the booking process begins. This bag is in addition to the small personal item currently allowed for free, which must fit under the seat. The exact start date in 2027 has yet to be confirmed.
The European Commission stated: “To create price transparency, air fares including allowance for a piece of hand baggage shall be displayed by default before the start of any booking process to facilitate fare comparisons between airlines.”
Alexis Vafeades, Minister of Transport, Communications and Works of the Republic of Cyprus, commented: “I’m proud that, after 13 years of negotiations, we reached a landmark agreement to strengthen EU air passenger rights. This modernized framework will deliver certainty, fairness and stronger protection for millions of European air passengers.”
Passenger Rights During Delays
The agreement also clarifies compensation and assistance rules. In case of a delay eligible for compensation, airlines must inform passengers electronically within 96 hours of arrival. Airlines must acknowledge a claim immediately and respond within 30 days, either paying compensation or providing a clear justification for refusal.
During disruptions, passengers are entitled to refreshments every two hours, a meal after three hours and every five hours thereafter (up to three meals per day), internet access, and two phone calls.
Impact on UK Airlines
While the rules are EU-wide, they may also affect UK carriers. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is reportedly considering updating British law to align with the new rules. Consumer champion Which? noted: “These rules apply to EU airlines, such as Ryanair, but also to airlines flying from the EU to the UK, including UK carriers such as easyJet.”
Which? added: “It would be impractical for UK carriers to apply one set of bag rules and charges on inbound flights from the EU, and outbound legs from the UK. It’s likely that UK carriers will implement the same rules on flights to the EU.”
Ryanair already offers a free personal carry-on bag of 40cm x 30cm x 20cm, 33% larger than the new standard. EasyJet includes a small cabin bag up to 45cm x 36cm x 20cm for free in its fare, chosen by nearly 40% of customers.
