Ryanair to increase free cabin bag size limit - flights to and from France impacted
The new allowance is larger than the minimum dimensions recently proposed by the EU
The change will prevent Ryanair falling foul of possible new EU regulations. Photo for illustrative purposes only
Yaroslav Astakhov / Markus Mainka / Shutterstock
Low-cost airline Ryanair is set to increase the size limit for free carry-on luggage, in a move that will keep it in line with new proposed EU regulations.
All travellers will soon be able to bring a bag that fits the dimensions of 40 x 30 x 20cm, weighing a maximum of 10kg, which must be stowed under the seat in front of them, without being charged.
The change will be introduced in the coming weeks, once the airline has adjusted its devices to measure maximum bag size, it announced.
Passengers set to travel with the airline over summer should check in advance to see if the rules are in place for their journey.
The incoming limits are 20% larger than those currently in place with Ryanair (40 x 20 x 25cm), and noticeably larger than the proposed 40 x 30 x 15cm limit the EU wishes to instate on all airlines flying to and from the bloc.
Ryanair was one of the few airlines offering a carry-on luggage limit smaller than that proposed by the EU.
The airline has not officially explained the reason for the policy change but it is thought to be linked to the planned regulation changes.
New EU proposals are still far from certain
This change to free carry-on luggage sizes is among several that MEPs of the European Transport Committee voted in favour of last month.
Other proposals include allowing all passengers of European flights to take a second piece of hand luggage on-board for free – stored in overheard lockers and with a maximum weight of 7kg – and changes to compensation rules for delayed flights.
However, a wider vote by MEPs is still required for the parliament to officially back the changes, and could see individual proposals in the bill rejected.
It is only after this vote, expected to take place this month, that the EU Commission will begin working on a legislation change across the bloc.
It must be noted that many governments are opposed to the proposals, although some such as Spain are largely in favour. The country recently fined several low-cost airlines a cumulative €179 million for 'abuses' related to carry-on luggage charges and penalties levied on passengers.
The measures have also been criticised by airline lobbies, who say it reduces passenger choice by removing cheaper 'travel light' options and will lead to increased ticket prices.
It means that in practice, it could be several years until the new limits are in place.
Until this time, it is best to check individual airline hand luggage rules as they can differ greatly.
You should be informed about this when purchasing a ticket or the information should be available on the airline’s website.
