Ryanair, Europe's largest low-cost airline, is set to increase its free cabin baggage allowance by 20%, offering passengers more space for their belongings without additional fees. The new maximum dimensions for personal baggage will be 40 x 30 x 20 cm, a notable increase from the previous allowance.
"This change will be implemented in the coming weeks as our baggage measuring devices at airports are adjusted to accommodate the larger bags," said a Ryanair spokesperson, according to The Independent.
The airline's decision comes in response to recent discussions within the European airline industry regarding standardizing cabin baggage sizes. Following an agreement among European airlines to adopt a new minimum size for cabin luggage, Ryanair has increased one of the dimensions of its personal bag from 25 cm to 30 cm. The current size of Ryanair's free personal bag is 40 x 25 x 20 cm, with a total volume of 20 liters.
By increasing the dimensions to 40 x 30 x 20 cm, the new volume of the personal bag will be 24 liters, providing passengers with more freedom to carry essential items without incurring extra charges. This move exceeds the recently established European minimum standard of 40 x 30 x 15 cm.
"This will align A4E members with the decision of member states made last month and bring more clarity to passengers across Europe. From city-hoppers to family travellers, everyone will benefit from the same clear rule across our members' networks," said Ourania Georgoutsakou, the managing director of Airlines for Europe (A4E), according to The Independent.
The adjustment in Ryanair's cabin baggage policy aligns with efforts by European airlines to establish uniform baggage policies. A4E has been in discussions with the European Commissioner for Transport, Adina Vălean, regarding simplifying life for passengers and streamlining baggage rules across European airlines. A4E's efforts have led to a decision mandating that all airlines adopt a standardized minimum size for cabin baggage, specifically 40 x 30 x 15 cm, to be implemented by the end of summer.
While the new regulation sets a minimum size, Ryanair's increase surpasses this requirement. Had Ryanair aligned with the European minimum bag size, it would have meant a 10% reduction in luggage volume for its passengers. Instead, the airline opted to provide larger dimensions, enhancing the passenger experience.
However, Ryanair, along with other low-cost carriers such as easyJet and Wizz Air, has expressed opposition to a proposed regulation requiring all airlines to allow passengers to bring on board two pieces of hand luggage. Last month, members of the European Parliament voted to require all airlines to permit this. Ryanair argues that such a policy would be unworkable and complicate boarding processes, potentially causing delays and operational challenges.
Despite the debates, Ryanair's move to increase its cabin baggage allowance is seen as a positive development for travelers. The additional space allows passengers to carry essential items without extra fees, making air travel more straightforward.
Competing airlines have taken different approaches in response to the new regulations. EasyJet confirmed it will maintain its current hand luggage dimensions of 45 x 36 x 20 cm, with a total volume of 32 liters. Wizz Air has opted to keep its cabin bag dimensions the same, offering a 40 x 30 x 20 cm allowance for its free carry-on bags, slightly larger than the new EU-backed standard.
British Airways, Jet2, and easyJet already have allowances that exceed the new standardized dimensions. This variety in policies highlights the ongoing debate within the industry over standardizing cabin baggage requirements.
Ryanair recently reported that in June it transported 19.9 million passengers, an increase of 3% compared to the same period last year. The airline's growth underscores its position as a market leader in the low-cost carrier sector.
As Ryanair rolls out updated bag sizers in the coming weeks, travelers can enjoy more flexibility without losing out on the airline's fares. The adjustment strikes a balance by providing additional space for passengers' items without disrupting flight efficiency.
Passengers are advised to check Ryanair's website for official announcements and to ensure their baggage complies with the new dimensions. Using packing cubes can help travelers efficiently organize their items, making the most of the 24-liter space.
Written with the help of a news-analysis system.