Court Rules on Cabin Baggage Rights
A significant ruling on passenger rights has been issued in Germany. The Higher Regional Court of Hamm ruled in favor of consumer organizations in a case against Spanish low-cost carrier Vueling regarding its cabin baggage policy. The court found it unlawful for the airline to allow only a small personal bag free of charge while imposing fees for additional cabin baggage.
The court emphasized that under European Union legislation, cabin baggage is considered an “integral part” of air transport. It stated that no additional fees may be charged for baggage that falls within reasonable size and weight limits. In this context, allowing only a single bag measuring 20x30x40 cm to be carried free of charge was deemed insufficient and unlawful.
Officials from the Federation of German Consumer Organisations said that many airlines generate revenue by restricting passengers to very small personal items and charging extra for standard cabin baggage. They called for clearer, passenger-friendly regulations. Similar legal proceedings are reportedly ongoing against other low-cost carriers, including easyJet, Eurowings, and Wizz Air.
