Wizz Air Faces Legal Storm as EU Pushes for Fairer Hand Luggage Rules
Consumer Group Sues Budget Airlines Over Misleading Baggage Charges
Germany’s top consumer rights organisation has taken Wizz Air, EasyJet, and Vueling to court for unfair luggage pricing practices. The lawsuits argue that airlines mislead passengers by advertising low fares that exclude essential hand luggage at booking’s final stage.
Travellers often assume their fare includes a carry-on bag, only to face extra fees for anything larger than a purse. Vzbv President Ramona Pop says charging for normal hand luggage violates EU laws and misrepresents the true cost of flying.
Court Ruling Could Redefine Airline Ticket Inclusions
A 2014 European Court decision ruled hand luggage is essential and cannot be subject to additional charges if size compliant. The lawsuit relies heavily on this ruling, aiming to make inclusive hand luggage a legal requirement across all European airlines.
Pop insists hand luggage is a standard travel necessity, not a luxury, and shouldn’t require passengers to pay hidden fees.
The European Parliament’s Transport Committee recently approved a proposal mandating free carry-on and personal items for all airline passengers. If passed, airlines must allow one small personal item and one carry-on bag onboard without charging extra at any point.
Proposed size and weight limits – 40×30×15 cm for personal items, 100 cm and 7 kg for carry-ons, would apply across the EU.
Airlines Push Back Against Regulation and Lawsuits
Low-cost airlines argue these new regulations restrict flexibility and could force fare hikes, undermining the budget travel business model. They claim charging only for services used keeps prices low and gives travellers more control over how much they pay.
Despite criticism, consumer groups say regulation is necessary to end confusing cost structures and ensure pricing transparency for all travellers.
If courts side with Vzbv, airlines may be legally required to include hand luggage in advertised fares across the continent. Such a decision could shift the foundation of low-cost air travel, forcing companies to rethink what “budget” tickets truly include.
The case could redefine what counts as a basic service, setting a powerful precedent for future aviation industry standards.