German consumer advocates have won a first victory in a lawsuit over high carry‑on fees. The Hamm Higher Regional Court ruled against Spanish low‑cost carrier Vueling, prohibiting the airline from permitting only one free carry‑on bag with dimensions of 20 × 30 × 40 cm and charging for every additional piece. The decision, reported by the “Neue Osnabrücker Zeitung” in its Monday edition, confirms that airlines are required by EU law to transport reasonably sized hand luggage without added charges.
According to VZBV chair Ramona Popp, the ruling strengthens the organization’s position just before the launch of new EU negotiations on passenger rights. “Passengers should be able to bring an unencumbered carry‑on bag at no extra cost” Popp told the NOZ. She noted that many airlines currently allow only very small bags and backpacks at no surcharge, while passengers trying to add a small handbag often face extra fees.
The VZBV has also filed complaints against EasyJet, Eurowings and WizzAir, though those cases are still pending. In its ruling on Vueling, the court cited the principle that hand luggage is an essential part of the transport service and no surcharge can be charged “as long as the weight and dimensions meet reasonable requirements”. The court therefore deemed the one‑bag rule unlawful.
On Monday, Brussels was set to host new talks between the EU Parliament, the Commission and member states about revising air‑travel passenger rights. The negotiations follow the Parliament’s draft, which the governments rejected. Low‑cost carriers fear that offering cheap fares while profiting from baggage fees threatens their business model.
Popp urged a practical, clear rule: “The ticket price should include a small personal carry‑on and a standardised hand luggage of at least 115 cm corner size and 10 kg weight”.