The EU introduces uniform rules for hand luggage on flights: what you have to pay for

The European Union wants to standardize rules for carrying hand luggage on board aircraft. The initiative aims to establish a single standard for the size of bags that can be taken into the cabin free of charge, regardless of the airline. Find out exactly what changes are being proposed and how they will affect travelers

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The European Union plans to amend the rules for carrying hand luggage on all flights, including international ones. This was reported by the Daily Mirror.

The initiative aims to standardize regulations among airlines, which currently have their own requirements for the size and cost of carrying hand luggage.

The changes will affect popular low-cost airlines such as Ryanair, Wizz Air, and easyJet.

Uniform rules for all of Europe

The future EU directive provides for the establishment of a single size for bags that passengers will be able to take on board the aircraft free of charge. This involves the introduction of a single standard for hand luggage that can be stored under the passenger's seat.

It is expected that the maximum dimensions will be 40x30x15 centimeters, including wheels and handles.

If approved by the European Parliament, this innovation will guarantee passengers the right to carry at least one personal item free of charge.

In addition, airlines will be prohibited from charging extra fees for such hand luggage.

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No more confusion and surprises at the terminal

One of the main goals of the new initiative is to eliminate confusion among passengers who often travel with different airlines. It is not uncommon for a bag that meets the requirements of one company to be too large for another, forcing travelers to pay additional fees directly at the airport. Standardizing sizes will help avoid such unpleasant situations.

What do we have now?

Currently, airlines set their own hand luggage standards:

Ryanair allows passengers to take on board free hand luggage measuring 40x20x25 cm.

Wizz Air has a slightly larger limit — 40x30x20 cm, with a maximum weight of 10 kg

easyJet allows hand luggage measuring 45x36x20 cm.

All dimensions include wheels and handles.

What's next?

The initiative is currently under consideration. If the new rules are approved, this will be a significant step towards harmonizing air transport standards within the EU and will make air travel more comfortable and predictable for passengers.

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Reminder! Low-cost airline Ryanair has introduced a number of important changes that will affect check-in, hand luggage allowances and penalties. Find out when the new rules will come into effect.

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