Airline Baggage Rules: A Growing Concern for Travellers
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As the summer travel season gets underway, many passengers are finding themselves caught out by airline baggage rules. The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) has recently made a complaint to the European Commission about what it claims are “undue fees to consumers for their hand baggage”. The complaint specifically targets seven carriers, including Ryanair, EasyJet, Wizz Air, and Vueling, accusing them of exploiting customers while ignoring an EU court ruling.
According to the report by RTE, the BEUC complaint argues that airlines are taking advantage of passengers by charging excessive fees for hand baggage. The EU court ruling states that airlines operating in the bloc cannot charge for a ‘reasonable’-sized bag. However, the definition of a ‘reasonable’ size bag is open to interpretation, and airlines such as Ryanair and Aer Lingus have different views on what this means.
Ryanair, for its part, has welcomed the BEUC complaint, saying it expects it will show that its baggage policy is compliant with the court order. As RTE reports, Ryanair allows passengers to carry a ‘small’ bag onto the plane, measuring up to 40x20x25cm, as part of its basic fare. However, passengers who arrive at the boarding gate with a larger carry-on bag they haven’t paid for could be charged up to €60 to check the bag in.
Aer Lingus, on the other hand, allows passengers to carry a ‘small personal item’ on-board, measuring no more than 33x20x25cm, as part of its basic ticket. However, this bag is only “free” if it’s checked in at the airport – those wishing to carry it onto the plane will have to pay €10 extra. As the RTE article notes, passengers who bring their “free” 10kg bag to the boarding gate without already having paid to do so will have it placed in the hold, at a cost of €35.
The complaint made by BEUC to the European Commission highlights the need for clearer rules on what size of bag has to be included in the basic ticket price. As the RTE report states, the European Commission is already looking into the baggage rules of airlines in the bloc, with a view to potentially standardising them across the region.
In the meantime, passengers can take steps to avoid getting caught out by airline baggage rules. As RTE advises, it’s essential to check and double-check the bags you’re using, measuring their dimensions to ensure they’re within the rules. It’s also worth double-checking with your airline before flying, as rules can change and a bag that was fine last year may not be accepted now.
Investing in a handheld luggage scale can also help ensure you’re staying within the weight limit, and can cost as little as €6. Additionally, being ruthless about what you bring can help reduce baggage costs, and many small travel bags available on the market today can help with this.
In terms of booking baggage, it’s often cheaper to book it as early as possible. As the RTE article reports, Ryanair charges customers more for adding on a bag after they’ve completed their initial booking. Similarly, Aer Lingus charges between €25 and €55 for a 20kg checked bag when it’s added at the time of booking, but this can rise to between €27 and €57 if added later.
Overall, the airline baggage rules can be complex and confusing, but by being aware of the rules and taking steps to avoid getting caught out, passengers can save themselves a significant amount of money. As RTE notes, it’s essential to stay informed and plan ahead to avoid unexpected baggage costs.
The airline industry is taking steps to address these concerns, with some carriers introducing new baggage policies and fees. However, as the RTE report highlights, there is still a need for greater transparency and consistency in baggage rules across the industry.
By understanding the airline baggage rules and taking steps to comply with them, passengers can avoid unexpected costs and make their travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. As RTE reports, it’s essential to stay informed and plan ahead to get the most out of your travel experience.
In conclusion, the airline baggage rules are a growing concern for travellers, and it’s essential to stay informed and plan ahead to avoid unexpected costs. By understanding the rules and taking steps to comply with them, passengers can make their travel experience smoother and more enjoyable. As the RTE article notes, it’s essential to stay informed and plan ahead to get the most out of your travel experience.
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