Bigger Bags for All: Ryanair and Other Airlines Adapt to EU Rules

Ryanair is set to roll out a significant change to its cabin bag policy, increasing the size of free under-seat luggage in a move that reflects a broader shift in European air travel regulations. The change, which is a direct response to a landmark EU committee vote, aims to standardize cabin baggage allowances and make flying more transparent for consumers.

From the end of next month, Ryanair passengers will be able to bring a personal bag measuring 40x30x20cm, a 20% increase in volume from the previous 40x25x20cm. This change means an additional four liters of space for travelers, bringing the airline's free allowance above the new EU minimum standard of 40x30x15cm. The airline has stated that new bag sizers are being deployed across all 230 airports and will be in place by the end of September.

A Ryanair spokesperson confirmed the change, stating, "Following the new EU minimum bag size of 40x30x15cm, Ryanair will increase its max personal bag dimensions to 40x30x20cm, so that Ryanair's personal bag allowance is bigger than the EU standard."

This policy update is part of a larger trend sparked by a European Parliament vote that seeks to eliminate hidden fees and standardize baggage rules. The proposed EU law, which is still awaiting final approval from member states, would grant every passenger the right to bring a free personal item and a small cabin bag (up to 7kg and 100cm total dimensions) on board without additional cost.

While Ryanair's move is a proactive step, other airlines are also navigating the new regulatory landscape.

EasyJet: Currently, EasyJet allows a free small cabin bag up to 45x36x20cm, a size already more generous than the new EU minimum. Passengers wishing to bring a larger overhead cabin bag must pay for it or be an EasyJet Plus member. The airline's existing policy already aligns well with the spirit of the new EU rules, though the potential for a mandatory free second bag could impact its revenue model.

British Airways: British Airways' long-standing policy allows passengers a free personal item (up to 40x30x15cm) and a larger overhead cabin bag (up to 56x45x25cm), with each item having a generous weight limit of 23kg. This is already more accommodating than the proposed EU law and highlights a key difference between full-service and low-cost carriers.

Wizz Air: Similar to Ryanair, Wizz Air's standard fare includes only a free under-seat bag (40x30x20cm). Passengers must purchase "Wizz Priority" to bring a second, larger cabin bag. This model of charging for overhead bin access is common among budget airlines and is at the core of what the new EU law is challenging.

The industry is now grappling with how to adapt. While some airlines may absorb the cost by slightly raising base fares, others may seek to increase ancillary revenues from other services like seat selection or priority boarding. The ultimate goal of the EU initiative is to provide travelers with greater clarity and cost certainty, making it easier to compare fares and avoid unexpected fees at the gate.

This ongoing shift in policy is a win for consumers, who can look forward to more consistent and passenger-friendly air travel in Europe.