A proposed EU regulation could compel low-cost carriers such as easyJet, Ryanair, and Wizz Air to offer passengers a free cabin bag on flights within the European Union, ending years of controversial baggage fees. However, the rule would not automatically apply to UK airlines or outbound flights from Britain, creating a potential two-tier system for travellers.
New Rule Mandates Free Hand Luggage
After nearly a decade of discussions, the European Council and the European Parliament have reached an agreement on air passenger rights that would require airlines to include a free cabin bag—in addition to a small personal item—in the base fare. The personal item must fit under the seat (maximum dimensions 40cm x 30cm x 15cm), while the cabin bag is expected to follow the common 7 kg weight limit and 100 cm combined dimensions.
The European Council stated: "To create price transparency, air fares including allowance for a piece of hand baggage shall be displayed by default before the start of any booking process to facilitate fare comparisons between airlines." This aims to prevent airlines from advertising artificially low fares that surge when baggage fees are added.
Impact on Passengers and Airlines
Aviation expert James Doyle (FRAeS), founder and CEO of Boston Warwick, explained the implications: "You'll be entitled to one free personal item (max 40cm x 30cm x 15cm - typically under-seat handbag/backpack/laptop bag) plus one small wheeled cabin bag." He noted that low-cost carriers would likely raise standard ticket prices to compensate for lost baggage fee revenue, meaning light travellers who previously paid €20–60 for priority boarding or small cabin bags could benefit most, while those travelling with only a personal item might see little net gain or even pay more.
Doyle added: "Carriers must let you choose a cheaper fare if you decline the small wheeled bag during booking - useful if you only need the personal item."
UK Passengers Face Partial Coverage
The rule applies primarily to EU airlines and flights within the EU. For UK airlines such as easyJet, British Airways, and Jet2, compliance would only be required on flights returning from the EU to the UK. This means Britons could face hand luggage charges on the outbound leg but not on the return, creating inconsistency. Doyle clarified: "The rules apply most clearly to EU airlines and flights within the EU; long-haul, non-EU carriers, or certain UK–EU routes may have partial or delayed coverage."
Implementation Timeline and Warnings
As of now, the proposal remains under consideration. If officially approved, the change could be rolled out within 12 months. Doyle warned: "Current cabin bag fees remain fully in force for all 2026 and most 2027 bookings. Airlines won't overhaul policies overnight; expect possible early marketing spin, inconsistent gate enforcement during rollout, and a period of confusion or disputes as staff and systems adapt." He advised passengers to check specific flight terms closer to travel.
Doyle also cautioned: "Watch for airlines shifting revenue elsewhere, such as higher seat-selection fees, priority boarding charges, stricter change/cancellation rules, or new 'basic' fare tiers. This is broadly passenger-friendly and ends the worst 'gotcha' cabin-bag fees, but it's not a pure win for everyone. Always compare the full journey price, pack and measure to the new standards, and treat 2027 as the real start date rather than assuming instant change."
