Travelers in the European Union will soon enjoy free hand luggage on flights, following a recent vote by lawmakers to eliminate carry-on fees. Here's what we know so far:
Hand Luggage Fees Scrapped
No more surprise charges for your overhead bag! The new rule allows passengers to bring carry-on luggage weighing up to 7 kilograms at no extra cost, in addition to an under-seat backpack. According to Matteo Ricci, vice-president of the EU Committee on Transport and Tourism, this move ensures "fairer and more transparent travel" by defining free hand luggage up to 100cm as a "fundamental right" to avoid unfair fees.
Impact on Airlines
This change is a win for passengers but a challenge for low-cost carriers like Ryanair, which earned €4.7 billion last year from extras like baggage and seat fees. Airline lobbies warn that ticket prices may rise to offset losses, but the measure is part of broader passenger rights reforms.
Additional Reforms
Other proposed changes include free seating for children under 12 with their accompanying adult, free seats for carers of passengers with reduced mobility, and mandatory upfront disclosure of full flight costs.
What's Next?
The proposals await final approval in a parliamentary vote, with no confirmed start date yet. Stay tuned for updates.
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