The European Parliament defends free cabin luggage and opposes EU transport

The European Parliament defends free cabin luggage and opposes EU transport ministers

26-06-25

The European Parliament has given strong backing to air passengers’ rights by supporting the guarantee of free transport of a carry-on bag and a personal item in the aircraft cabin. In a decision that stands in clear contrast to the position adopted just a few weeks ago by the transport ministers of the 27 EU Member States, MEPs have decided to take a completely opposite and more passenger-friendly approach. While the transport ministers of the EU Council opted to reduce rights and allow greater charges for cabin luggage, the European Parliament has voted to prevent airlines from charging for what has long been considered a basic service.

The European Parliament’s Committee on Transport and Tourism approved — by 38 votes in favour, 2 against and 2 abstentions — a series of legislative changes designed to significantly strengthen passengers’ rights within the European Union. Among the most notable measures is the guarantee that travellers can carry a small piece of cabin luggage of up to 100 centimetres (total of length, width and height) and a maximum weight of 7 kilos free of charge, as well as a personal item — such as a handbag, backpack or laptop — with maximum dimensions of 40 x 30 x 15 centimetres. The aim is to create a clear and uniform framework that puts an end to abuses and unexpected surcharges that in recent years have increasingly frustrated air passengers, especially on low-cost carriers.

In addition, the Parliament’s proposal includes other measures aimed at improving passengers’ experience and rights. It ensures that children under the age of 12 can sit next to their accompanying adult free of charge, a practice that has until now been a source of additional income for some airlines. The rights of persons with reduced mobility are also strengthened, guaranteeing that their companion can occupy an adjacent seat without extra cost. Another important improvement is the right to compensation in the event of loss or damage to mobility equipment or injury to an assistance animal. Furthermore, the creation of a standard compensation and reimbursement form across the EU will make it easier for passengers to claim their rights and bring greater transparency to the process.

This stance by the European Parliament is in direct opposition to the recent reform of Regulation 261/2004 on air passengers’ rights, promoted by the EU Council on 5 June. That reform, which was approved with only Spain, Germany, Portugal and Slovenia voting against it, proposes cuts to passengers’ rights by reducing compensation entitlements and allowing airlines to charge for cabin baggage. This reform still requires approval by the European Parliament with an absolute majority — 361 votes — and, in light of the position now adopted by the Parliament, it seems likely that MEPs could block this more restrictive initiative in defence of a model that puts passengers at the centre.

The European Parliament’s resolution is seen as a clear message in response to what consumer organisations have described as a real “blow” to passengers’ rights by some institutions and airlines. Consumer groups and user advocacy bodies have welcomed the MEPs’ stance and are calling for this approach to be maintained in the next stages of negotiations on passenger rights reform. They stress that allowing charges for carrying a small cabin bag or personal item undermines the concept of an air ticket and distorts competition by making it harder for travellers to compare real prices between airlines.

With this proposal, the European Parliament aims not only to protect consumers, but also to promote greater transparency and harmonisation within the EU’s air transport sector. The coming weeks will be key as negotiations between the Parliament and the Council get underway to reach a final agreement that will define the regulatory framework for passengers’ rights in Europe. All signs point to the European Parliament being unwilling to compromise on matters it considers essential to ensuring air travel that is fair, transparent and respectful of European citizens’ rights.

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