The European Parliament has voted to end carry-on baggage charges, requiring airlines to make carry-on baggage free of charge for all passengers. The new rules are expected to come into effect in early 2024.
This decision comes after several customer complaints about airlines charging for carry-on luggage, even though it is required to be free of charge under EU law.
Airlines Will Not Charge for Carry-On Baggage
The new rules will apply to all airlines operating in the EU, including low-cost carriers. Airlines will also be required to standardize the weight and measurements for carry-on luggage, putting an end to the different rules that each airline currently has.
The European Commission has been asked to list carry-on baggage as an “indispensable item,” which means that airlines will no longer be able to charge for it.
“This is a great victory for consumers,” said Xabier Benito, a member of the European Parliament. “For too long, airlines have been ripping passengers off by charging for carry-on luggage. The new rules will put an end to this practice and make it easier and more affordable for people to travel.”
Great Benefits for Travelers
The new rules will be a major benefit for travelers because they will no longer have to pay extra for carry-on luggage. Moreover, this will save them money and make it easier to travel because they will not have to worry about whether or not their carry-on luggage will meet the airline’s requirements.
Additionally, the new rules will also make it more transparent for passengers to compare the prices of different flights. In other words, airlines will no longer be able to hide the cost of carry-on luggage in the ticket price.
How Will this Decision Impact Airlines?
The new rules are likely to significantly impact airlines, particularly low-cost carriers. Such airlines rely on baggage fees to generate revenue, and the loss of carry-on baggage fees might lead to higher ticket prices.
However, some analysts believe the new rules could actually benefit airlines in the long run. Furthermore, by making it easier and more affordable for people to travel, the new rules could increase demand for air travel.
These New Rules Will Only Apply to EU Airlines
The new rules will only apply to airlines operating in the EU. This means that airlines that operate outside of the EU will still be able to charge for carry-on luggage, which might make it more expensive for travelers to fly on non-EU airlines, especially if they are traveling to or from the EU.
Conclusion
The new rules are a welcome change for travelers, but they also raise some important questions. For example, how will airlines compensate for the lost revenue from carry-on baggage fees? Will ticket prices go up? Will airlines find other ways to charge passengers for things that are currently free, such as checked baggage or seat assignments?