Airports in turmoil: consumer advocates demand an end to hand luggage fees!

Airports in turmoil: consumer advocates demand an end to hand luggage fees!

In recent years, many holidaymakers have increasingly had to deal with problems due to not enough space in their suitcases and the incurring of extra fees from airlines. Ryanair, Easyjet and Wizz Air are particularly the focus of criticism. Consumer protection organizations are now calling for clear rules for hand luggage fees in order to clear up the jungle of tariffs for travelers. The West reports that the basic fare of many airlines only includes small backpacks, handbags or bags.

Passengers who want to take additional hand luggage with them often have to dig deep into their pockets. Ryanair, for example, charges 18 euros for a piece of hand luggage with the maximum dimensions of 55 x 40 x 23 cm. Other airlines also charge similar fees, which is leading to growing dissatisfaction among travelers. In the context of these fees, the consumer protection organization BEUC together with the German Federal Association of Consumer Organizations (vzbv) have filed a complaint with the EU Commission.

Legal situation and consumer protection

This complaint is directed not only against Ryanair, but also against Easyjet and Wizz Air, and is based on a ruling by the European Court of Justice (ECJ) from 2014. This states that there should be no extra costs for hand luggage as long as the size and weight are “appropriate”. The lack of clarity about the definition of “appropriate” has been sharply criticized by consumer advocates, as the current carry-on baggage limits are often considered too strict and illegal.

Consumer advocates are calling for the EU Commission to intervene to regulate or ban these fees entirely. The aim is to introduce binding rules for all EU countries regarding hand luggage. In addition, the ongoing reform of the Air Passenger Rights Regulation is seen as an excellent opportunity to introduce more precise regulations for the size limits of hand luggage and the services included in the ticket.

Serious consequences for airlines

In order to take action against the pricing practices of airlines, fines totaling 179 million euros were imposed on airlines in Spain last year. These penalties are part of a larger effort to ensure transparency and fairness in the treatment of passengers. daily news highlights that many flights charge additional fees for hand luggage, which is met with resentment by consumers.

In view of these developments, it is clear that there is an urgent need for action to protect the interests of travelers and to establish a fair fee structure. When flying in the EU, consumers should not be faced with additional financial surprises when it comes to their hand luggage.