Good News! Europe May End Hand Luggage Fees On Flights

Good news for travellers flying within Europe! You might soon be able to carry hand luggage, laptop bags or small handbags on flights without paying extra fees. A new rule passed by EU lawmakers on June 24  will put an end to charges on small cabin bags.

No Hand-Luggage Charge On Flights Within Europe

According to a report in The Economic Times, EU lawmakers have proposed a rule to completely remove fees for small cabin bags on all EU flights. Passengers may be allowed to carry-on bags up to 7 kg and 100 cm in size, along with a personal item like a purse or laptop bag, for free. We all know how frustrating it is to pay a large amount of money for airfare and then be charged for cabin luggage as well. This new rule will apply to all EU carriers, including low-cost airlines.

Matteo Ricci, Vice-Chair of the EU Committee on Transport and Tourism, said in a statement that the rule is a major step towards fairer and more transparent travel. He added that it’s a basic passenger right to avoid unjustified extra costs.

Also Read: 15 Food Items You Should NEVER Carry In Your Hand Luggage While Flying

More Passenger-Friendly Rules Might Be Introduced

Along with removing hand luggage charges, lawmakers in Europe also voted to ban seat selection fees for children under 12. They have called for more transparent pricing, asking airlines and ticket platforms to show full costs upfront to travellers. In addition to that, the proposal also includes protection for passengers who miss connecting transport services due to delayed flights.

Low-cost carriers like Ryanair and Wizz Air often charge extra for hand baggage based on size and weight, as per ET. Some airlines have already voiced concerns, warning that free cabin bag allowance could force them to hike ticket prices to recover the costs. Still, if approved, this new rule might be a game-changer for air travel across Europe. 

Also Read: Kolkata May Get Direct Flights To These European Cities

What do you think of these new rules passed by the European lawmakers? Let us know.

Cover Image Courtesy: Freepik/gar1984(Representative Image)