The European Union is urging airlines to voluntarily adopt common industry standards for hand luggage weight and dimensions or face possible regulation.
Speaking remotely at the European Regions Airline Association (ERA) General Assembly in Seville this week, European Director General for Mobility and Transport, Magda Kopczyńska, stressed the urgent need for standardised luggage rules and “clear passenger information” regarding cabin baggage allowances.
Montserrat Barriga said ERA will “push back” against hand luggage standardisation.
She told delegates that while the EU prefers a collaborative approach, it’s prepared to intervene if airlines fail to reach a consensus.
If the industry is unable to resolve the matter voluntarily, Kopczyńska warned, “we may have to consider regulation.”
However, ERA Director General Montserrat Barriga said during her address to the assembly that the Association would “push back” against any attempt to standardise cabin luggage allowances.
Many ERA member airlines use varying baggage policies to differentiate offerings and generate ancillary revenue.
The EU’s push for standardisation follows a workshop held in July 2024, where the Commission gathered stakeholders, including airlines, airport operators, and consumer groups, to discuss the possibility of establishing common standards. A follow-up workshop is planned for the autumn to continue these discussions.
