‘The competent authorities should immediately investigate the issue of luggage billing And to push for solutions that will provide consumers with reliable proposals, such as tackling complexity and hidden charges, through the introduction of common European rules, “the Consumer Association of Quality of Life calls on the complaints filed by the European Consumer Organization of the European Consumer and 16 European Organizations by European Consumer Organizations and 16 European Member States. Cooperation between EU Member States in the field of Consumer Protection Cooperation Network-CPC Network, against Seven Airlines who charge unjustified fees to consumers for their luggage.

Consumer Associations and Beuc seek to take place research In the EU for the commercial practices of these airlines, but also of the wider industry, which exploit consumers and ignore the Court of Justice of the European Union (WEU/Case C-487/12), which ruled that Charging for a luggage with “reasonable” weight and “reasonable” dimensions is illegal. This, as recalled, confirms the recent fines imposed on Spain, which clearly show that passengers have the right to carry a “reasonable” weight and “reasonable” dimensions, at no additional cost.

Indeed, research by the Dutch Consumentbond organization reports that 86% of consumers believe that a small object and a small trolley or a backpack should be included in the basic price of the airline ticket.

In addition, the recent proposal for revision of the Air Transport Passenger Rights is an excellent opportunity for the EU to transparently include services included in the basic ticket price to address issues such as hidden costs. In particular, policy -making managers should also define the exact concept, such as “reasonable” weight and “reasonable” dimensions for luggage, to avoid unpleasant surprises at airports and to reduce time and money disputes to consumers and airlines.

Historical

The EU Court ruled in 2014 that “the transfer of luggage cannot be subject to a price increase if they meet reasonable requirements in their weight and dimensions and comply with the applicable security requirements”.

The Spanish Consumer Organization of OCU (Organización de Consumidores y Usuarios) has filed a formal complaint to the Spanish Ministry of Social Rights and Consumption, which eventually imposed a fine of 179m euros on five airlines for abusive handling of 20 -year -olds. (Testacats/Testaankoop) also filed a complaint to the Belgian authorities in May 2024, as well as the Portuguese organization (DECO). The Belgian consumer organization also filed a lawsuit against Ryanair for unfair commercial practices in luggage.

These non -lawful policies, says EKIZIO, emphasize the need to launch an action throughout the EU against the unfair and abusive trade practices of airlines. Harmonizing luggage rules would enhance transparency, prices comparison and consumer protection for all air transport passengers. At the same time, it will ensure legal security and have a positive impact on airports.

In conclusion, consumer organizations are calling on the competent authorities to immediately investigate the issue of luggage billing and to push for solutions that will provide consumers reliable proposals, such as tackling complexity and hidden charges through the introduction of common European rules.