Charging for hand luggage on planes will be illegal

The European Parliament’s Transport Committee has ruled that charging for hand luggage is illegal, and that consumers will be entitled to carry one small item measuring 40x30x15 cm and one “hand luggage” (maximum size 120 cm and maximum weight 7 kg) for free, rendering hand luggage charges imposed by some low-cost airlines illegal.

The Organisation of Consumers and Users (OCU) has expressed its satisfaction with the European Parliament’s resolution, stating that it responds to the organization’s request and represents “strong support for the position of the Spanish Government, which has fined several airlines for charging for hand luggage.”

The European Parliament’s Transport Committee proposes major improvements in resolution.

Conflicts with airlines can help accelerate claims. According to the OCU, the authorities’ national resolutions are binding and will help resolve thousands of airline claims.

In addition, the airline’s failure to respond to claims, which they describe as “unusual” may indicate acceptance of the same. Companies should be required to send compensation and reimbursement forms with passenger data within 48 hours. Extraordinary circumstances can be justified within the same time frame.

The OCU recommends methods to prevent impunity when dealing with delays, cancellations, or luggage issues.

The Transport Commission of the European Parliament has approved a significant improvement in the protection of air transport users. It addresses the role of intermediaries (e.g. travel agencies, tour operators) in claims and refunds, ensuring that airlines respond to consumers if they do not carry out their obligations.

According to the Organisation of Consumers and Users, these procedures are crucial in preventing airlines from operating without accountability. The Spanish Ministry of Consumer Affairs, which imposed the largest fine in history for airlines’ abuses against consumers, is bolstered by Parliament’s decision, which comes shortly after the European Union Transport Council’s reversal in user protection. “OCUwill demand that the measures approved this Tuesday, June 24th, should be applied as soon as possible so that consumer rights are respected,” they’ve announced.