EU bids to abolish aircraft carry-on bag fees and clarify passenger rights

A bid to ban airlines from charging passengers for small carry-on bags has been adopted by European politicians.

 

The European Parliament’s transport committee adopted a proposal that would allow travellers to take a personal item, such as a handbag or backpack, and hand luggage of up to 15lb without an additional fee.

 

The committee voted also to close enforcement gaps and make sure passengers are better aware of their rights in the case of travel disruptions.

 

Debating the EU’s passenger rights rules, MEPs supported a proposal to introduce a common form for compensation and reimbursement requests. 

 

MEPs also want to see role of intermediaries - ticket vendors or retailers - clarified over reimbursing air passengers for cancelations, long delays or denied boarding. 

 

These companies should inform passengers at the time of booking about the full cost of an air ticket, intermediation or service fees, and the reimbursement process, which should not take longer than 14 days. 

 

“Should an intermediary fail to respect this deadline, it would be up to the air carrier to process the reimbursement within seven days,” the committee suggested.

 

MEPs supported a proposal to introduce a common form for compensation and reimbursement requests. 

 

They also want to add a provision tasking airlines with sending passengers a pre-filled form, or activate alternative automatic communication channels, within 48 hours following disruption. 

 

EU countries must discuss the final shape of any new legislation before any new rules are approved.

 

Passenger rights MEP Matteo Ricci said: “Today’s vote marks an important step toward fairer and more transparent travel. 

 

“The agreed compromises protect all passengers, with special attention to persons with disabilities and reduced mobility, and introduce concrete measures such as the clear definition of free hand luggage up to a maximum size of 100cm, a fundamental right to avoid unjustified extra costs. 

 

“Increased transparency for intermediaries and strengthened enforcement bodies will ensure a fairer and more efficient system. Parliament is taking a strong position that defends citizens’ rights.”