The dispute over hand luggage charges by airlines is far from over. The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC), along with 16 of its member organizations from 12 countries—including Greece’s Consumer Protection Center (KEPKA)—has filed a complaint against seven low-cost airlines for unjustified fees imposed on passengers for their hand luggage.
The complaint was submitted to the European Commission and the Consumer Protection Cooperation (CPC) network, calling for an EU-level investigation into the commercial practices of these airlines.
According to a statement from KEPKA, BEUC and its members are urging the EU to scrutinize the airlines’ policies. BEUC Director General Agustin Reyna stated that European consumer protection authorities are “taking action against seven airlines that are exploiting passengers and ignoring rulings by the EU’s highest court.”
Reyna emphasized that the ongoing revision of the EU Regulation on air passenger rights presents “the perfect opportunity for the EU to clarify which services must be included in the basic ticket price.” He added, “Our data shows that consumers expect a small personal item or hand luggage to be included in the basic fare. Policymakers should also define what constitutes a ‘reasonable size and weight’ for hand luggage to avoid surprises at the airport and ultimately reduce disputes that cost both passengers and airlines time and money.”
The statement also cites a 2014 ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union, which held that airlines cannot charge extra for hand luggage, provided it meets reasonable size and weight requirements and complies with safety regulations.
Spain’s BEUC member, Organización de Consumidores y Usuarios (OCU), filed a formal complaint with the Spanish Ministry of Social Rights and Consumer Affairs. The ministry responded by imposing a €179 million fine on five airlines at the end of 2024 for abusive hand luggage practices. Similar complaints were filed by BEUC members Testachats/Testaankoop in Belgium (May 2024) and DECO in Portugal.
“These national procedures underscore the urgent need for coordinated EU action. Harmonizing rules for hand luggage would bring greater transparency and price comparability for passengers and ensure legal certainty. It would also positively impact airport operations,” the statement concludes. A survey by BEUC’s Dutch member, Consumentenbond, confirmed that 86% of consumers believe a small personal item or trolley bag or backpack should be included in the basic fare.
