Cabin Luggage Row Escalates Between IATA and EU

IATA Criticizes EU Plan to Mandate Free Cabin Bags for All Passengers

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has strongly criticized a proposed European Parliament amendment that would require airlines to allow all passengers to bring a cabin bag of up to 100cm for free—regardless of whether they want or need the service.

IATA warned that the move would backfire, leading to higher ticket prices and operational headaches for both airlines and travellers.

“When regulators meddle in commercial matters they don’t understand, they usually get it wrong,” said Willie Walsh, IATA Director General.

“Passengers want low fares and the freedom to choose extras like baggage. Forcing airlines to include baggage for everyone only raises prices and creates chaos over which bags qualify.”

What the EU Is Proposing

The amendment, part of the revised Passenger Rights Regulation (2023/0437), was introduced by the European Parliament’s TRAN committee. It calls for every passenger to have the right to carry a 100cm cabin bag at no extra cost, essentially making free cabin baggage a legal requirement.

What Passengers Really Want

According to an IATA survey in April:

• The #2 priority for passengers (after safety) is affordable travel.

• 72% of travelers said they prefer to pay the lowest possible ticket price, adding only the services they choose.

• Only about 30% of travelers typically pay to bring a cabin bag onboard.

“This means a small group of travellers will benefit at the expense of the majority,” IATA noted.

“If this rule passes, most passengers will end up paying more for a service they don’t use.”

IATA’s Message to Lawmakers

IATA urged the EU Parliament to reconsider the amendment, warning it could result in higher fares, operational confusion, and less choice for consumers.

“If EU lawmakers insist on unnecessary regulation, they must take responsibility for its consequences,” said Walsh.