In a resolution on harmonized standards for airline carry-on baggage, MEPs agreed on the need for consistent EU rules on size and pricing, as decided by the European Court of Justice in 2014, the European Parliament announced on Wednesday. The resolution, which passed with a show of hands, underscores citizens' concerns about the inconvenience and discomfort caused by inconsistent airline carry-on baggage regulations.
The resolution said EU legislation on air passengers' rights should be revised to provide solutions.
MEPs said each company had different rules on carry-on luggage, often resulting in extra charges for passengers and making it difficult to compare prices. Additionally, conflicting rules can cause confusion when passengers use different airlines or must change travel plans.
Members of the European Parliament stressed that when amending the current European air services legislation, the European Commission should fully implement the relevant decisions of the European Court of Justice from 2014. Specifically, the court held that airlines should not charge additional fees for carry-on bags “provided that they meet reasonable requirements in terms of weight and size and comply with applicable security requirements.” Meanwhile, MEPs argued that the new legislation should also address other hidden costs, such as those related to seat selection.