The European Union is moving ahead with major changes to air passenger rights, with cabin baggage at the centre of a new agreement between the European Parliament and EU member states.
Under the new framework, passengers purchasing a standard airline ticket will be entitled to carry two items into the cabin without additional charges: a small personal item, such as a handbag or backpack, to be placed under the seat in front, and a larger cabin bag weighing up to 7 kilograms and measuring up to 100 centimetres in total dimensions.
The change forms part of a broader overhaul of air passenger rights across the EU, which also covers flight delays, cancellations and compensation rules.
The new regulations have not yet entered into force, as the legislative process still needs to be completed. Their implementation is expected before the end of 2027, with October of that year being considered as a possible start date.
At the same time, airlines will still be able to offer lower fares to passengers who choose to travel without a cabin bag. How such fares will be structured is expected to become clearer once the new rules are implemented.
What changes for British travellers
Different arrangements will apply to passengers from the United Kingdom, as the new EU rules will not automatically apply to flights departing from British airports.
British travellers will therefore be able to benefit from the new provisions when returning from EU countries, while UK airlines are already reviewing their policies in preparation for the changes.
The agreement is being viewed as a significant reform of the air passenger rights framework, as it seeks to establish clearer rules on baggage allowances and the charges associated with airline tickets.
