Brazil Moves to Mandate Free 10 Kg Carry-On as Regulators Seek Delay and U.S. Airlines Warn on Treaty

Overview

• The Senate approved a terminative bill guaranteeing a free 10 kg cabin bag with fixed dimensions of 55 x 35 x 25 cm and sent the text to the Chamber, which had already granted urgency to a similar measure.
• The Ministry of Ports and Airports sent a technical note asking lawmakers to postpone a vote to study market impacts and hear ultra low-cost carriers.
• ANAC told Congress the Aeronautics Code sets no weight or size limits and that its 2016 rule provides free carry-on up to 10 kg under conditions set in carrier contracts, while the bill would redefine personal items versus overhead-bin luggage.
• Airlines for America argued that banning fares without included carry-on would violate the U.S.–Brazil Air Transport Agreement and asked U.S. agencies to engage with Brazilian authorities.
• Latam began charging for overhead-bin bags on international flights and Gol signaled it would follow, with airlines continuing to allow a personal item under the seat at no charge.