Ryanair and the EU: A Small Win for Passengers or Just a Marketing Gimmick?
Ryanair has finally decided to increase the size of free cabin baggage by 20%, but is this really a big deal or just a drop in the ocean? Until now, passengers could bring a free bag measuring 40x25x20 cm, just enough for a small purse or a small backpack. Now, this size is increasing to 40x30x20 cm, meaning the volume goes up from 20 to 24 liters. Officially, it’s only 5 centimeters wider, but in practice, it can mean the difference between carrying your stuff onboard or having to check it in.
However, Ryanair still lags behind its competitors. EasyJet allows bags sized 45x36x20 cm, which is 32 liters, while WizzAir already permits 40x30x20 cm. So, while Ryanair claims this is a big step forward, compared to the competition, it’s still at the back of the pack.
The EU and New Regulations: Will Passengers Finally Get What They Deserve?
The European Union has proposed new laws that would guarantee passengers the right to an additional bag measuring 40x30x15 cm, with a maximum weight of 7 kg, at no extra cost. This would mean passengers could carry two bags in the cabin, which has been a big issue with low-cost airlines that often charge for extra baggage.
However, Ryanair, EasyJet, and WizzAir have strongly opposed this proposal, claiming it’s unfeasible. Instead, Ryanair is trying to adapt to the new rules by increasing the size of one bag, hoping this will ease the pressure to allow two free bags.
What Does This Mean for Passengers?
If you’re used to traveling with more stuff in the cabin, you might still have to pay extra. Ryanair announced that the new rules will start being implemented in the coming weeks, but they will still strictly measure bag sizes at airports. So if your bag exceeds the new dimensions, be prepared for additional fees.
On the other hand, competitors like EasyJet and WizzAir already have larger size allowances and don’t plan to reduce them, meaning passengers have the option to choose where to fly if they want more baggage space.
Ryanair’s Growth and What It Says About the Market
In June, Ryanair carried 19.9 million passengers, a 3% increase compared to the previous year. This shows that despite strict baggage rules, people still choose this airline because of low prices. But will this growth continue if baggage rules get even stricter?
Conclusion: A Small Win or Just Cosmetic Change?
Increasing the size of free cabin baggage at Ryanair is definitely a step in the right direction, but it’s far from what passengers want and deserve. The EU is trying to introduce fair rules, but low-cost airlines fight to keep their profits, often at the expense of passengers.
If you’ve ever been frustrated by baggage rules, you know what we mean. And if not, maybe it’s time to try packing a 24-liter bag and see if it’s really enough. Or better yet, share with us in the comments how many times you had to pay extra for baggage and how you dealt with it. Maybe together we can change the rules — or at least have a laugh at these “big” changes.
Either way, get ready for new measures and remember — every centimeter counts!
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