Overview

• Member states must now ratify the draft regulation before it can take effect, with a final implementation timeline still undetermined.
• Airlines for Europe warns carriers seating 180 passengers typically have overhead space for only 90 trolley bags, heightening the risk of boarding delays.
• Budget airlines have grown reliant on ancillary fees—Ryanair’s ancillary revenues topped £884 million last year and baggage charges now account for over 30 percent of its revenue.
• Consumer rights groups praise the proposals as a necessary step to curb rising and inconsistent luggage surcharges across EU carriers.
• Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is considering a similar hand-luggage fee ban in the UK, although formal policy work remains at an early stage.