The never-ending battle over carry-on baggage

FRANKFURT (dpa-AFX) - On the eve of the biggest departure wave of the year, a controversy is brewing over the rules governing hand luggage allowed on board airliners. What can I take in the cabin? The answer to this seemingly simple question varies greatly from airline to airline, much to the annoyance of passengers, and can even prove very costly.

This situation could soon change, however: the European consumer protection federation Beuc has lodged a formal complaint with the European Commission against seven low-cost airlines, which currently allow only one small free personal bag per passenger. At the same time, MEPs are calling for more generous rules on cabin baggage.

Why are there still no uniform rules?

Until now, the European Union has largely left it up to airlines to set their own rules regarding hand luggage. Even the recommendations of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) are not uniformly applied. According to a 2014 ruling by the EU Court of Justice, it is only established that no supplement can be charged for hand luggage, even with the cheapest ticket. However, the "reasonable requirements" for size and weight demanded by the Court have still not been defined at European level.

What's the current situation?

The situation varies from airline to airline. Most low-cost carriers, such as Ryanair, Easyjet or Eurowings (a Lufthansa subsidiary), only allow a small bag to fit under the seat. On traditional airlines such as Lufthansa and British Airways, even the cheapest ticket allows a small wheeled suitcase. Travelers are therefore urged to check their airline's rules before departure, to avoid any unpleasant surprises or fines at the airport. Crews are particularly strict on busy flights.

What are the advantages of traveling with hand luggage only?

Anyone going on a beach vacation with a few shorts and T-shirts can do without checked baggage. Keeping your hand luggage close to you considerably reduces the risk of loss. During the busy summer months, checked bags are more likely to be lost or arrive late. What's more, you don't have to wait for your luggage on arrival, which means you can leave the airport more quickly.

What are consumer associations demanding?

The European associations' complaint targets the basic fares of Easyjet, Ryanair, Norwegian, Transavia, Volotea, Vueling and Wizz Air. According to Beuc, these airlines charge between €6 and €75 for an extra bag in the cabin, when space permits. These ancillary revenues are crucial for airlines. The Italian daily "Corriere della Sera" estimates Ryanair's annual baggage revenues at 3.5 billion euros, and Easyjet's at 2.2 billion euros.

According to Beuc, the small free bag is not enough to carry enough clothes and personal belongings. The German association Verbraucherzentrale Bundesverband (VZBV) is also a member of Beuc. Agustín Reyna, Managing Director of Beuc, argues in favor of allowing an additional wheeled suitcase: "I don't understand how it would be reasonable to have to fit everything needed for a trip of at least two to three days into a simple little bag."

What are we debating at the European Parliament?

The Transport Committee voted by a large majority to allow passengers to carry two small items of hand luggage at no extra charge. In addition to a small bag (handbag, backpack or laptop, maximum dimensions 40x30x15 cm), a small suitcase would be permitted. However, the proposed minimum size is still smaller than that of the cabin baggage usually allowed by Lufthansa and co.

However, the legislative process is still under negotiation between the Parliament and EU member states. An agreement on passenger rights is not expected before the end of the year. "We will not allow passenger rights to be reduced", assures MEP Jan-Christoph Oetjen (FDP).

What are the airlines' arguments?

Airlines for Europe (A4E) rejects any further regulation of cabin baggage. Millions of passengers deliberately choose the lowest fare without a cabin bag, and should not be forced to pay for a service they don't need. Ourania Georgoutsakou, representing A4E, makes a comparison: "What's next? Popcorn and drinks compulsorily included in the price of a cinema ticket?"

Stricter regulations would simply mean less choice for passengers, says the German trade association BDL. Moreover, uniform baggage dimensions would not take into account the diversity of aircraft types.

What are the other disadvantages of too much hand luggage in the cabin?

When too many passengers bring numerous personal belongings on board, space in the baggage compartments quickly becomes insufficient. Disputes and stress are inevitable. The aircraft can only start taxiing when all passengers are seated and baggage is properly stowed. If delays occur, e.g. due to the transfer of baggage from the cabin to the hold, already tight take-off slots can be compromised, lengthening the wait for all passengers.