Overview

• vzbv has lodged lawsuits in Germany against Easyjet, Wizz Air and Vueling Airlines over fees it deems unlawful for hand luggage
• These claims rely on a 2014 European Court of Justice judgment that defines hand luggage as a core element of transport that must be provided free of extra charges when size and weight comply with safety rules
• The consumer group says budget fares mislead travelers by excluding adequate carry-on allowances and forcing passengers to pay extra for standard-sized bags
• Easyjet has declined to comment publicly, justifying its surcharge by citing overhead bin capacity constraints and boarding efficiency
• EU negotiators aim to finalize uniform free carry-on standards by the end of the year to shield millions of travelers from hidden fees