The low-cost carrier EasyJet has launched a fierce attack on proposed European Union regulations that would mandate free additional cabin baggage for all passengers. The airline’s chief executive has warned that such legislation could lead to higher fares and significant flight delays across the continent.
European lawmakers recently passed a vote supporting measures that would allow every passenger to bring both a personal item and a larger carry-on bag free of charge. The proposal, which received overwhelming support in the European Parliament, aims to strengthen passenger rights but has drawn sharp criticism from budget airlines.
EasyJet’s CEO Kenton Jarvis described the proposals as misguided interference from politicians who don’t understand the aviation industry. He emphasized that aircraft cabins simply don’t have sufficient space to accommodate the additional luggage, which would force airlines to return to outdated practices of offloading bags to the cargo hold during boarding.
The executive also highlighted the financial implications, noting that baggage fees contribute substantially to the airline’s ancillary revenue stream of over £2.5 billion annually. Any loss of this income would inevitably be transferred to passengers through increased ticket prices, affecting everyone regardless of their luggage needs.
Despite posting increased losses of £93 million for the latest quarter, EasyJet reported record booking levels for January and growing passenger interest in destinations across North Africa and Eastern Europe. The airline maintains that its current pricing model, including baggage charges, offers excellent value to customers.