✈️ 🧳 Big Change Coming: Free Carry-On Luggage may soon be mandatory on All EU Flights

🧳 What’s the proposal?

The European Parliament’s Transport and Tourism Committee (TRAN) has officially adopted a proposal to ensure that every passenger can bring one standard-sized carry-on bag onboard at no extra cost. The proposed dimensions are 55 × 40 × 20 cm, with a maximum weight of 7 kg.

This decision marks a return to more passenger-friendly rules, as many budget airlines have restricted carry-on luggage in recent years allowing only small personal items for free, and charging for any standard cabin suitcase.

🚨 Why is this important?

• Eliminates hidden fees: Many travellers feel misled when the cheapest ticket doesn’t include a basic carry-on suitcase. This change will bring consistency and transparency to ticket pricing.

• Applies to all airlines in the EU: No matter if you fly Ryanair, Wizz Air, Lufthansa, or Air France, the rule would apply uniformly across all carriers flying within the EU.

• Improves passenger rights: The EU is pushing for fairer treatment of travellers and fewer surprises during booking.

🛫 Industry pushback

Several airline groups have opposed the proposal, arguing that this could lead to:

• Higher base fares, as costs would be spread across all passengers,

• Operational difficulties due to limited cabin space,

• Reduced flexibility in airline business models.

However, the proposal’s supporters stress that fair and transparent pricing should take priority and passengers deserve to know what they’re paying for upfront.

🗓️ What happens next?

The TRAN committee’s vote is just the first step. Here’s the expected timeline:

• Full European Parliament vote likely in autumn 2025 (September or October).

• Negotiations with the European Council required before the law can be finalized.

• Implementation phase once passed, airlines will likely have several months to adjust policies.

If passed, the new rule would become binding for all EU-based carriers and all flights departing from or arriving in the EU.

🧭 What should travellers do now?

For now, nothing changes immediately. Airlines can still enforce their current luggage policies, so if you’re flying soon, be sure to check the baggage allowance when booking.

But if the legislation passes, you can expect:

• One free cabin bag, no matter the airline or fare

• Fewer surprises and extra charges

• A better, more unified passenger experience across the EU

✅ Summary

• EU wants to make one free carry-on bag mandatory on all EU flights

• Applies to all airlines, including low-cost carriers

• Proposal still needs approval from Parliament and Council

• If passed, travelers could save money and avoid hidden fees