EU Passenger Rights Reform Lets Airlines Charge for Hand Luggage

After years of negotiations, EU member states reached an agreement on a new passenger‑rights regulation that will be voted on by the European Parliament. The text does not guarantee a free hand‑luggage allowance; instead it permits airlines to offer basic fares without a trolley‑type bag and to charge extra for such luggage. Airlines welcomed the decision, saying it confirms the legality of offering lower fares to passengers who travel without a hand‑luggage trolley.

Spain had pushed for a mandatory free hand‑luggage provision and criticised the compromise, calling the loss of a “right” a setback for consumer protection. Consumer groups echoed the disappointment, warning that the new opt‑out model could lead many travellers to pay for services they do not need. The reform also introduces other consumer safeguards, such as bans on fees for seat selection with minors and on printing tickets at the airport.

The outcome marks a shift toward greater price transparency for airlines while leaving the core issue of free hand‑luggage unresolved, a point of contention that may lead to further legal challenges.