Confusion and inconsistency in budget airline baggage rules, particularly regarding free underseat bags and charges for overhead cabin bags, have led to passenger complaints and a push for standardized regulations. The EU transport ministers have proposed a standardized size for free underseat baggage, but the debate continues over whether airlines should be allowed to charge for overhead cabin bags, a practice some consumer groups and governments (like Spain) are challenging.
How budget airline baggage confusion triggered EU legal row
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Confusion and inconsistency in budget airline baggage rules, particularly regarding free underseat bags and charges for overhead cabin bags, have led to passenger complaints and a push for standardized regulations. The EU transport ministers have proposed a standardized size for free underseat baggage, but the debate continues over whether airlines should be allowed to charge for overhead cabin bags, a practice some consumer groups and governments (like Spain) are challenging.
Trending- 1 11 years ago: EU court ruled hand baggage should not be subject to extra fee if 'reasonable' size/weight.
- 2 November (previous year): Five airlines were fined a total of €179m in Spain for 'abusive' practices, including charging for hand luggage.
- 3 December 2023: Benjamin Till experienced baggage issues with EasyJet at London Gatwick.
- 4 Thursday: EU transport ministers proposed standardized sizing for free underseat baggage.
- Passengers face unexpected fees and humiliation
- Consumer groups are pushing for fairer rules
- EU is considering new laws
- Some airlines have been fined
What: Confusion and inconsistency in budget airline baggage rules have led to a proposed EU law change and legal disputes.
When: December 2023 (Benjamin Till's incident), Thursday (EU transport ministers' proposal), 11 years ago (EU court ruling), November (Spain's fines)
Where: London Gatwick Airport, Pisa, European Union, UK, Spain
Why: Passengers face confusion and unexpected fees due to varying and unclear baggage policies, prompting consumer groups and governments to seek standardization and fairer practices.
How: EU transport ministers proposed standardized sizing for free underseat baggage. Consumer groups are lobbying for further changes. Some governments (e.g., Spain) have fined airlines for 'abusive' practices.