EU Consumer Organizations Demand Action Against Airlines Over Baggage Fees

In a recent development, a coalition of sixteen consumer advocacy groups has urged the European Union to intervene regarding the baggage fees imposed by several low-cost airlines. The airlines under scrutiny include easyJet, Norwegian Air, Ryanair, Transavia, Volotea, Vueling, and Wizz Air.

The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) has voiced strong concerns, claiming that these airlines are misleading passengers and causing confusion and distress at check-in counters. According to the BEUC, the practices surrounding hand baggage allowances are not only unfair but also violate EU consumer laws.

In their communication, the BEUC and its member organizations from twelve different countries highlighted that the targeted airlines engage in practices that impose additional charges on travelers whose hand baggage does not adhere to the specified guidelines. This has drawn the ire of consumer advocates who argue that such actions are already deemed illegal under existing regulations.

Passengers may face additional costs of up to EUR280 ($315) for carrying a suitcase, which has raised significant concerns among consumer rights groups. They are now calling for investigations by the European Commission and national consumer authorities across EU member states, urging them to impose sanctions on what they describe as illegal practices.

Moreover, the BEUC advocates for a standardized luggage allowance to be included within the overall ticket price, which would alleviate confusion and additional costs for consumers.

In response to the allegations, Ryanair has stated that it welcomes the complaint, asserting that its baggage policy is fully compliant with EU law, which allows airlines the discretion to set prices, including those for optional services. Similarly, Norwegian Airlines has expressed confidence in its adherence to EU regulations, emphasizing that its baggage policy is designed to ensure safety and efficiency on board.

Volotea and Transavia, the latter being a subsidiary of Air France-KLM, have echoed sentiments from the industry body Airlines for Europe, which argues that such consumer actions could stifle choice and force all passengers to pay for additional services that may not be necessary for everyone.

As this situation unfolds, the European Commission's response to these calls for action could have significant implications for both airlines and consumers alike.