Briefing 
 

Airline carry-on luggage: MEPs to push for common rules 

In a resolution, MEPs argue that inconsistent rules and prices for airline carry-on luggage cause inconvenience to travellers and want EU-level harmonisation.

Airlines currently have different size rules and pricing structures for carry-on luggage, which can lead to “confusion, inconvenience, less comfortable travel experiences, delays and sometimes disputes between passengers and airline staff”, according to MEPs in a draft text, to be put to a vote on Wednesday. Hidden luggage fees make it impossible for passengers to transparently compare the options available and make informed decisions, which is why harmonised EU rules are necessary.

MEPs stress that when reviewing the current EU legislation on air services, the Commission should fully implement a ruling by the Court of Justice of the EU that airlines should not charge a supplement for hand baggage “on condition that such hand baggage meets reasonable requirements in terms of its weight and dimensions, and complies with applicable security requirements”.

Vote: Wednesday 4 October

Procedure: non-legislative resolution (rule 227)