Photo: dom zara / Shutterstock The European low-cost airline Ryanair announced that it has completed deploying new bag sizers in all 235 airports where it operates.
The implication is that every passenger is allowed to bring a larger personal bag on board: 40×30×20 cm, which represents a 33% increase over the previous European standard (40×30×15 cm).
This is a free bag that any passenger can place under the seat in front of them. Those wishing to bring an additional bag can do so by purchasing the Priority Boarding service or adding a suitcase to the aircraft's hold for a fee at the time of booking.
Daragh Brady, Ryanair's marketing director, said: "From today, our personal bag is 33% bigger than the European standard. We are happy to offer passengers more free space, but we make it clear: anyone who does not comply with the new dimensions will be required to place the bag in the aircraft hold and pay the full charge."
Recall that Ryanair has suspended its flights to Israel until October 25 and is among the few airlines that have not yet renewed flights to Israel.
Also, the European Union parliament's transport committee recently voted in favor of adopting a dramatic and unprecedented proposal regarding passenger rights whereby airlines will not be allowed to charge additional fees for carrying a personal and trolley bag into the cabin. This step by the European parliament is expected to bring about a real revolution: not only does it return hand bags to the status of a basic right, it also signals to airlines that the era of hidden fees and luggage distortions is coming to an end.
According to the new rules if ultimately approved:
- Every passenger will be entitled to bring one personal item (such as a backpack, handbag or laptop) with dimensions up to 40×30×15 cm
Additionally, a small hand luggage (trolley/backpack) with a combined dimension of up to 100 cm and a maximum weight of 7 kg
Without any additional charge from the airline
If indeed approved, the new regulations are expected to apply to all airlines operating flights within the European Union and will also apply to flights departing or landing in member countries.
After the transport committee's approval, the move will be submitted to a vote in the European parliament's plenary, and in the next stage, member states of the union will need to approve in order to turn it into official law.
The move is based on a 2014 ruling by the European Court of Justice that carrying hand luggage is considered an integral part of the service, as long as it meets weight and safety requirements.
More on airlines that have returned to Israel and those that have not in PassportNews's continuous coverage: