Else Beekman
Ryanair has strongly defended its luggage policy. The defence of the airline follows a formal complaint filed with the European Commission by the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) against several airlines over luggage charges.
In a statement released this week, the Irish low-cost airline expressed confidence that the Commission will uphold its current policy, citing European Union law that allows airlines to set their own pricing, including for optional services.
“Ryanair allows each passenger to carry a generous (40 x 25 x 20 cm) personal bag on board free as part of its basic fare, with the option to add extra bags for an optional fee,” the airline said. “This policy promotes both low fares and consumer choice. Forcing airlines to include additional carry-on bags in the base fare would reduce choice and increase costs for all passengers.”
Reference to ECJ ruling
The airline referenced a 2014 European Court of Justice (ECJ) ruling in the “Vueling” case. This confirmed that airlines may charge for extra luggage. However, they have to provide that passengers can carry essential personal items on board at no extra cost.
Ryanair pointed out that the regional government of Galicia had attempted to force Vueling to carry all luggage free of charge, prompting the ECJ to clarify its position. “Numerous courts across Europe, along with the EU Commission, have upheld this ECJ ruling. It confirms that airlines can lawfully charge fees for additional luggage,” the airline added.
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Criticism of online travel agencies
The statement also accused online travel agencies (OTAs) of misleading consumers. “If the European Consumer Organisation genuinely wants to protect consumers from exploitation, it should address the excessive mark-ups imposed by OTAs. These agencies often trick passengers into paying more for flights and extras that cost less when booked directly through airline websites.”
Sector-wide response from Airlines for Europe
EasyJet, one of the airlines mentioned in the BEUC complaint, has responded through industry body Airlines for Europe (A4E). In a joint statement, A4E said:
“All airlines let travellers bring one bag or personal item as part of their fare. This is in line with the Vueling ruling of the Court of Justice of the EU (CJEU). A 2024 Eurobarometer survey shows that 90% of passengers are well informed of the size and weight limits of the luggage included in their ticket.
The action taken by consumer organisations would decrease consumer choice. Furthermore, it would oblige all passengers to pay for additional services that they may not all need. The CJEU expressly acknowledges the value of unbundling services and how this allows passengers to choose the exact services that best suit their needs.
The decision of the Spanish Consumer Protection Agency on cabin bags is currently under appeal. The European Commission is assessing whether it complies with EU law. Making cabin bags mandatory would force up to 50 million passengers in Spain alone to pay for something they do not want.”
The European Commission has not yet responded to the complaint.