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EU transport ministers on Thursday approved updated air passenger rights rules that include allowing airlines to charge for carry-on cabin baggage, despite opposition from Germany, Spain, Portugal, and Slovenia.
The new rules create a free hand luggage item allowed under the seat, while other cabin bags may incur fees. The reforms also strengthen passenger protections for delays and cancellations. Airlines must reroute passengers promptly, offer compensation of up to €300 for delays over four hours on short flights and €500 after six hours on long-haul flights, and provide food, drinks, and accommodation during disruptions.
Airlines can no longer claim “extraordinary circumstances” unless they prove all reasonable measures were taken to avoid delays. Passengers will have up to six months to file claims, with airlines required to respond within 14 days.
Poland’s Infrastructure Minister Dariusz Klimczak called the deal a “historical milestone,” noting it introduces over 30 new passenger rights, some of which extend beyond the flight itself.
However, the European consumer group BEUC criticized the decision, calling the new cabin baggage charges “a substantial rollback of key rights.” BEUC argued the new compensation thresholds will exclude many passengers and that charging for hand luggage contradicts EU law and court rulings.
The European Parliament will now review the proposal before it enters final negotiations with member states and the European Commission. Consumer advocates have expressed concern over the expedited approval process.
With information from Euronews.
