EU to ban airlines from charging extra for hand luggage

The European Parliament’s Transport and Tourism Committee has voted in favour of major reforms to EU passenger rights, including a move to standardise hand luggage rules across all airlines. Aimed at creating consistency and fairness in air travel, the new proposal would require airlines to allow one personal item (up to 40x30x15 cm) and one small cabin bag (maximum 100 cm total and 7 kg) free of charge.

This initiative is part of a broader package to strengthen protections for air travellers following delays, cancellations, or denied boarding. It also includes clearer rules on intermediary responsibilities, simplified compensation procedures, and increased rights for vulnerable travellers.

Rapporteur on enforcement of passenger rights, Matteo Ricci (S&D, IT), hailed the vote as a step toward “fairer and more transparent travel,” adding, “The agreed compromises protect all passengers… and introduce concrete measures such as the clear definition of free hand luggage up to a maximum size of 100cm, a fundamental right to avoid unjustified extra costs.”

However, not everyone is on board. While the proposals are widely seen as a win for passengers, airline industry groups are raising red flags, particularly about mandatory free hand luggage.

Airlines For Europe, the continent’s largest airline association, strongly opposed the proposal, warning it could lead to unintended consequences for consumers.

“Europe’s airline market is built on choice. Forcing a mandatory trolley bag strips passengers of that choice and obliges passengers to pay for services they may not want or need,” said Ourania Georgoutsakou, Managing Director of Airlines for Europe. “What’s next? Mandatory popcorn and drinks as part of your cinema ticket? The European Parliament should let travellers decide what services they want, what services they pay for and, importantly, what services they don’t.”

Critics argue that rather than eliminating fees, the new rules would merely fold hand luggage costs into ticket prices, making fares more expensive overall. They suggest the changes could remove the flexibility many travellers appreciate when booking no-frills airline tickets.

Despite the debate, the Parliament continues to push forward. Additional provisions in the draft include guaranteed seating for children under 12 next to their guardians at no extra charge, free companion tickets for persons with reduced mobility, and compensation for lost mobility aids.

Negotiations between Parliament and EU member states on the final shape of the legislation are expected to begin in July 2025.