Under the new rules, passengers flying within the European Union (EU) can bring one personal item (such as a handbag or backpack) and one carry-on bag weighing up to 7 kg without incurring additional charges. The maximum size for a personal item is 40x30x15 cm, and for carry-on luggage, it's 100 cm in total linear dimensions (length, width, and height).

Matteo Ricci, Vice-Chair of the EU's Transport and Tourism Committee, stated that the regulation clarifies the standards for free carry-on baggage as a fundamental right to avoid unreasonable extra costs. "The vote on 25/6 marks a significant step towards fairer and more transparent travel," Ricci said.

Passengers stowing carry-on luggage in the overhead compartment. Photo: I am expat

Passengers stowing carry-on luggage in the overhead compartment. Photo: I am expat

This move is part of a series of reforms on passenger rights proposed by the European Commission since 2023, including regulations requiring airlines to display the full flight cost from the beginning of the booking process and to provide a more transparent compensation process.

The regulation comes after several consumer protection organizations urged the EU to investigate budget airlines for applying unreasonable fees for carry-on baggage, even when these items were within the standard weight and size limits. Several airlines, including EasyJet, Norwegian Air Shuttle, Ryanair, Transavia, Volotea, Vueling, and Wizz Air, have faced accusations of charging for carry-on luggage.

The Association of European Airlines (A4E) warned that the new regulation could lead to increased ticket prices, especially for passengers flying with budget airlines. An A4E representative argued that imposing mandatory services would restrict passengers' choices regarding paying for the amenities they actually need.

The European Parliament also proposed other passenger rights in the 2023 reform package. Children under 12 will be able to sit next to accompanying adults without extra charges. People with disabilities will have the right to be accompanied by a support person free of charge and will be compensated if their mobility equipment is damaged or their assistance animal is injured.

The new rules also require ticket intermediaries to fully disclose ticket prices, service fees, and refund procedures at the time of booking. The refund period cannot exceed 14 days. Otherwise, the airline is responsible for issuing the refund within 7 days.

Additionally, a standard EU-wide form for compensation and refund requests will be implemented. Airlines will be responsible for providing this form to passengers within 48 hours of an incident.

These proposals will be further discussed and negotiated with EU member states before officially taking effect.

Anh Minh (Euro News)