EU Wants to Ban Luggage Fees for Carry-Ons — Airlines Push Back

Key Points

• The European Parliament’s transportation committee voted in favor of banning fees for carry-on bags up to 7 kilograms.
• European airlines, especially low-cost carriers, oppose the measure, warning it could increase overall travel costs and reduce passenger choice.
• The proposed rule is part of broader efforts to strengthen passenger rights and is based on a 2014 court ruling recognizing carry-ons as a basic right.

Summary

The European Parliament’s transportation committee has approved a measure to ban airlines from charging fees for carry-on bags under 7 kilograms, aiming for fairer and more transparent travel. European airline groups are strongly opposed, arguing the ban would reduce passenger choice and harm low-cost carriers that rely on such fees for revenue. The proposal is part of a wider push to reinforce passenger rights and is grounded in a 2014 court decision that considers carry-ons a necessary part of air travel.