Airlines operating within the European Union will soon be required to display flight prices that include the cost of a standard cabin bag, under new regulations aimed at enhancing price transparency for travelers. The rules, expected to take effect in the latter half of 2027, will also guarantee passengers the right to bring one personal item, such as a small backpack or handbag, on board without an additional fee.
The European Parliament announced the changes, which will oblige airlines, intermediaries, and search portals to always show airfares inclusive of carry-on luggage at the outset of the booking process. This aims to prevent the practice of advertising extremely low base fares and then adding significant fees for cabin baggage later in the booking flow or at the gate.
Under the new rules, passengers will be allowed to bring one personal item with maximum dimensions of 40cm x 30cm x 15cm free of charge. This change is distinct from the current practice where the cost of a cabin bag is often unbundled from the headline fare, making direct comparison between airlines difficult. Aviation experts note that while the headline fare will now reflect the inclusion of hand luggage, the free personal item becomes a guaranteed right rather than a variable airline policy.
While these rules are mandated for EU airlines, they are expected to impact UK carriers as well. Consumer advocates suggest that UK airlines flying to and from the EU will likely adopt the same standards for consistency, making it impractical to maintain different bag policies for inbound and outbound flights. Airlines like easyJet and Ryanair, which have historically charged separately for cabin bags, will be particularly affected.
Some industry groups have expressed concerns that the upfront inclusion of baggage costs could lead to an increase in advertised airfares. Airlines for Europe, an industry association, stated that obliging airlines to artificially inflate prices contradicts EU law protecting opt-ins. However, the regulations also allow for travelers who opt to fly without any checked or cabin baggage to select a lower fare at a later stage of the booking process. Investigations into current pricing practices have found that the lowest advertised prices are often not available when baggage fees are considered.
For families, the potential savings from opting out of baggage fees could be substantial. For instance, a family of four might save up to £240 on an easyJet flight if they forgo larger cabin bags, based on current pricing estimates. EasyJet had previously described the proposals as a "lunatic idea" before the rules were confirmed. The exact implementation date is yet to be announced, but the regulations are anticipated to come into force in 2027.