EU Parliament backs two free cabin bags, Council veto stalls rule

The European Parliament voted overwhelmingly (632‑15‑9) to amend the EU passenger‑rights regulation so that each traveller may carry two free cabin items – a personal bag (minimum 40 × 30 × 15 cm) and a cabin suitcase up to 7 kg.

The European Council, representing the 27 member states, exercised a veto after intense lobbying by low‑cost carriers such as Ryanair and EasyJet, which say the baggage fees account for about 20 % of their revenue. As a result, the amendment will not become law yet; airlines must continue to display the full ticket price, including any mandatory cabin‑baggage charge, but only the small personal item is guaranteed free.

Airlines and the industry group Airlines for Europe argue the measure would raise costs and cause boarding delays, while consumer groups highlight the current opacity of baggage fees that lead to frequent disputes.