Ryanair Broadens its Free Carry‑On Policy
Ryanair, the Irish low‑cost carrier, has announced a modest but impactful tweak to its carried‑on bag rules. The airline is raising the maximum width that passengers can bring aboard for free by 5 centimetres.
Why This Matters
- Travelers who have previously found their trolley case just beyond the size measurer at the boarding gate, only to discover it fits perfectly under the seat, will now be exempt from the extra fee.
- The update addresses a frequent frustration, turning a minor measurement slip into a seamless journey for millions of budget riders.
Implementation Timeline
Beginning in the coming weeks, Ryanair will begin recalibrating the luggage sizers at all of its airports. The new policy will be reflected in the updated size measurements, ensuring a smoother check‑in for passengers on its most economical fare.
Ryanair policy says passengers to be allowed bigger bags in cabin
bigger carry‑on bags now permitted on board
Passengers will be able to check in a carry‑on that measures up to 40 × 20 × 30 cm, an increase from the earlier limit of 40 × 20 × 25 cm. The adjustment lifts the bag’s internal volume from 20 litres to 24 litres, giving travellers the chance to pack more without paying an extra fee, provided the bag does not exceed the 10‑kg weight limit.
- carry‑on dimension change: 40 × 20 × 30 cm → 40 × 20 × 25 cm
- volumetric increase: 20 L → 24 L
- weight cap: 10 kg (unchanged)
- implementation date: still unconfirmed
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Ryanair’s Hand‑Luggage Take‑away: A PR‑Sway on EU Baggage Rules
How A4E’s Standardisation Sets the Stage
- Airlines for Europe (A4E) – Ryanair’s ally, has championed uniform hand‑bag dimensions.
- The agreed sizes exceed the slightly smaller EU draft of 40 × 30 × 15 cm.
- Under the draft, airlines could levy carry‑on fees, a rule Ryanair now follows.
EU Council’s June 5 Vote: What It Means
- The Council gave the proposal a green light.
- Ratification still hinges on the European Parliament.
- At least 361 votes are required, a threshold the Parliament is likely to cross.
Transport Committee’s June 24 Decision
- Out of 42 members, 38 voted against permitting carry‑on fees.
- This split vote leaves the fate of the proposal in limbo.
Ryanair’s PR‑Pledge: “We’re Not the Worst”
- Ryanair’s announcement plays the PR angle: a confident rebuttal to critics.
- By adopting A4E standards, the carrier signals that it is not the worst in the baggage‑fee debate.
- And the message stays simple: “We’re A4E, we’re compliant, we’re uncharged….”
Bigger bag policy – Ryanair and 4 others face fines
Spain Tries to Bury Low‑Cost Airlines Over Carry‑On Fees
Spain’s Ministry of Consumer Affairs has slapped fines on Ryanair and four other budget carriers for charging passengers for “free” carry‑on luggage. The ministry, headed by Pablo Bustinduy, deems the practice unlawful because it contradicts EU rules that allow airlines to offer a plain‑carry‑on bag without an extra charge.
Ryanair Faces the Biggest Penalty
- Ryanair’s fine tops €107.7 million, part of a total €179 million sanction.
- The penalty is currently under judicial appeal and will remain inactive until a definitive court decision.
- In early July, the ministry opened a new sanction procedure against a sixth carrier for the same issue.
Ryanair’s Defence
Ryanair argues that not every passenger needs or desires an additional bag, so it claims that charging only those who actually use the option is more “fair.” The airline adds:
- Passengers who avoid checked luggage can save up to 40 minutes at the airport.
- It reduces the risk of lost or delayed bags.
- It streamlines the travel experience by speeding boarding and disembarking.
- Its free carry‑on allowance complies with EU regulations and promotes lighter travel, cutting costs for a smoother journey overall.
What the Ministry Wants
Spanish regulators are trying to end situations where passengers break their wheels to avoid “rip‑off” charges. The new policy aims to make the experience calmer and less stressful for all travelers.
