A small cabin revolution is in the offing... On Tuesday June 24, 2025, the European Parliament voted to ban extra charges on hand luggage, a practice widely used by low-cost airlines. A decision that could well lighten travelers' suitcases... and their bills!
Today, most low-cost air lines only include a single personal item, such as a handbag or computer bag. And to board with a carry-on suitcase, you often have to reach for your wallet. But this commercial strategy, described as an"unjustified cost" by Social Democrat MEP Matteo Ricci, could be on its last legs, according to Capital.
The text adopted by the European Parliament's Transport Committee would allow one small personal item and one piece of cabin baggage weighing up to 7 kilos to be carried free of charge in the cabin. This measure would apply to all flights to and from the EU.
Of course, the airlines don't see it that way. The Airlines for Europe association (A4E), the industry's voice, is warning of a risk: higher ticket prices to make up for lost revenue. And not the least... According to Corriere della Sera, these baggage fees would bring in 10 billion euros by 2023 for the continent's seven leading low-cost airlines.
Just when you thought you'd have to continue playing Tetris with your suitcase or wearing three sweaters to avoid paying extra, Europe takes a clear stand in favor of passengers. A new wind is blowing through the aisles of civil aviation.
