Jet2 has issued a reminder to customers as new European airline rules are set to take effect in the coming months. The British airline and holiday provider is highlighting the new regulations designed to make air fares and baggage allowances easier to understand, and what they mean for its passengers.
The new rules will allow all passengers to bring hand luggage onboard that can be placed in the overhead storage. Currently, some budget airlines such as Ryanair and easyJet charge extra for a second cabin bag. However, Jet2 is reminding passengers that its fares already include a small personal bag and an overhead bag.
No change for Jet2 customers
Jet2 says that customers do not need to change the way they book flights, as the new rules will have no effect on existing fares. The new EU rules are set to take effect in 2027.
Jet2 also notes that 80% of customers say the inclusion of 10kg of free hand luggage is a key reason they choose to fly with the airline.
CEO welcomes transparency
Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2, said: "For Jet2 customers, these new rules change nothing because we have always believed in doing the right thing by customers when it comes to hand luggage. Holidaymakers should not have to pay extra or figure out complicated rules just to bring their essentials on board. We have always believed in making things simple, transparent and fair, so customers know exactly what they're getting when they book."
He added: "We welcome any move that helps customers better understand what is included in the price of their flight and make informed decisions when comparing airlines. It is another example of why customers continue to choose Jet2 in record numbers – because they know exactly what they're getting when they book."
Ryanair criticises regulations
Meanwhile, Ryanair CEO Michael O'Leary has blasted the plans, labelling them as "bureaucratic bunkum from the EU Parliament and Council". He argued: "Instead of encouraging EU airlines to advertise our lowest fares (which exclude 2nd cabin bags), which is what over 50% of our customers choose, these new rubbish regulations require airlines to falsely advertise higher air fares, making EU airlines even less competitive."
He added: "Ryanair again calls on Ursula von der Leyen, and the EU Parliament, to stop making rubbish regulations which makes EU air travel less competitive, and instead do something competitive for European consumers by abolishing Europe’s discriminatory ETS tax (which only applies to intra-EU flights) and finally deliver effective ATC reform by requiring that ATC’s are fully staffed for first wave of morning flights, and protecting EU over flights during national ATC strikes."
