MEPs back free cabin bags and family seating on flights
Members of the European Parliament’s transport committee have voted in favour of a proposal that would entitle airline passengers to bring on board two carry-on bags without additional fees.
The proposed changes to EU passenger rights rules – which were backed by 38 votes to two with two abstentions – would permit travellers to carry one personal item, such as a handbag, backpack or laptop case (measuring up to 40x30x15 cm), and one small cabin bag not exceeding 100 cm in total dimensions and weighing no more than 7 kg.
The move is designed to prevent confusion and unexpected charges caused by inconsistent baggage policies among carriers.
MEPs also want to ensure children under the age of 12 are seated next to their accompanying passenger free of charge.
They also want more protections for persons with reduced mobility by making sure an accompanying person can travel with them free of charge, and adding a compensation right in case of loss/damage to mobility equipment or injury to an assistance animal.
MEPs push for enhanced passenger rights
Transport Committee MEPs plan to start talks with EU countries on the final shape of the new legislation, subject to approval from the European Parliament next month.
The European Parliament’s push follows long-standing criticism from consumer groups and passenger rights advocates who argue that current practices are unfair and unpredictable.
However trade body Airlines4Europe has warned that the proposed changes would strip passengers of flexibility and drive up costs.
The group, which represents many of the continent’s leading carriers, says the change would undermine airlines’ commercial independence and disregard the travel habits of millions of passengers who choose to fly without a cabin bag.
A4E argues that the amendment removes an important option for budget-conscious passengers who deliberately travel without extra baggage to save money.
Among the other measures backed by MEPs on Tuesday was a push to force third party airline ticket sellers to inform passenger at the time of booking about the full cost of their ticket, and service fees, and the reimbursement process, which should not take longer than 14 days.
In a separate vote, MEPs on the committee backed new draft EU rules on passenger rights in multimodal journeys comprising at least two modes of transport, such as train-bus-plane.
If a passenger has bought a single multimodal contract from one operator, switching between transport modes should not mean losing protection against missed connections and assistance, MEPs argue.
Should a missed connection result in a travel delay of 60 minutes or more, the passenger should be offered meals, refreshment and a hotel stay free of charge.
Proposal on bags means ‘fairer and more transparent travel’
Rapporteur on enforcement of passenger rights 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.”
Rapporteur on air passenger rights Andrey Novakov added: “Every delay, cancellation or confusion at the gate reminds us why passengers need stronger rights.
“Better protection for passengers also means clear and fair rules for industry. The European Parliament has made real progress, but our work is far from over.”
