EU airline fare transparency rules provoke Ryanair criticism

The European Parliament and Council have reached an agreement on new passenger‑rights measures that will require airlines to display fares that already include a free personal item and a larger cabin bag. The rules, expected to take effect in 2027, aim to improve price transparency and allow travellers to deselect the larger bag for a lower price during booking.

Ryanair chief executive Michael O'Leary denounced the reforms, calling them “gobbledygook” and “bureaucratic bunkum”, arguing that they force airlines to advertise higher fares and hurt competitiveness. He added that the EU should focus on air‑traffic‑control delays and environmental taxes instead. Supporters, such as Cyprus transport minister Alexis Vafeades, praised the deal for strengthening passenger rights and fairness across the single market.