In a landmark move, Spain’s Consumer Rights Ministry has imposed hefty fines totaling €179 million on five budget airlines—Ryanair, EasyJet, Vueling, Norwegian, and Volotea—for what it calls “abusive practices” related to hand luggage fees. The fines, announced in November 2024, mark a significant escalation in the ongoing battle between low-cost carriers and consumer protection advocates.
The Breakdown of the Fines
The penalties were distributed as follows:
- Ryanair: €108 million (the largest fine)
- Vueling: €39 million
- EasyJet: €29 million
- Norwegian: €1.6 million
- Volotea: €1.2 million
What Sparked the Fines?
The fines stem from an investigation that uncovered multiple violations of consumer rights. Key issues included:
- Charging for Hand Luggage: Airlines were found to be imposing fees for larger carry-on bags, despite EU rules stating that hand luggage meeting reasonable size and weight limits should be free.
- Misleading Information: Consumers were often unable to compare offers accurately due to unclear or hidden fees for services like seat selection and boarding pass printing.
The Legal Backdrop
This isn’t the first time the issue of hand luggage fees has come under scrutiny. In 2014, the European Court of Justice ruled that hand baggage is an essential part of air travel and should not incur additional charges if it meets standard requirements. The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) has strongly supported Spain’s actions, calling the fines a “victory for passengers.”
Airlines Push Back
Unsurprisingly, the airlines have vowed to fight the fines. Ryanair’s CEO, Michael O’Leary, dismissed the penalties as “illegal” and “baseless,” promising to appeal the decision in EU courts. EasyJet echoed similar sentiments, arguing that such fees are necessary to keep base ticket prices low.
The Bigger Picture: A Push for Standardization
The controversy has reignited calls for standardized hand luggage policies across the EU. In September 2023, Members of the European Parliament voted in favor of a resolution to ban carry-on baggage fees and establish uniform size restrictions. Advocates argue this would enhance transparency and protect consumers from unexpected costs.
Comparing Airline Hand Luggage Policies
| Airline | Hand Luggage Size Limit | Additional Fees? |
|---|---|---|
| Ryanair | 40x20x25 cm (small bag free, larger bag paid) | Yes |
| EasyJet | 45x36x20 cm (one free bag) | No (for standard size) |
| Vueling | 55x40x20 cm (one free bag) | No (for standard size) |
| Norwegian | 55x40x23 cm (one free bag) | No (for standard size) |
| Volotea | 55x40x20 cm (one free bag) | No (for standard size) |
What’s Next?
The outcome of the airlines’ appeals could set a precedent for how budget carriers operate across Europe. If the fines are upheld, it may force airlines to rethink their pricing strategies, potentially leading to higher base fares but fewer hidden charges. Meanwhile, the EU’s push for standardized policies could reshape the industry, ensuring fairer treatment for passengers.
For now, travelers are left navigating a patchwork of rules and fees—but with regulators stepping in, the days of confusing and costly hand luggage policies may soon be numbered.
