Spanish Consumer Group Claims Ryanair’s Latest Baggage Policy Is Illegal
Jackie Reddy August 30, 2018
Ryanair’s latest baggage policy overhaul will take effect later this fall and while there are a few months to go before the new rules are enforced, a Spanish consumer group is already claiming that they are illegal. Quick to defend its new policy, Ryanair has denied the watchdog’s claims as “false.”
Ryanair’s new cabin baggage allowance rules are due to take effect later this autumn, a change of policy that will mean that travelers will not be permitted to bring small cases on board for free, the Daily Star reports.
A full explanation of the carrier’s new policy – which will limit non-priority travelers to a single small carry-on item – can be viewed here. While these new rules aren’t due to be imposed until November 1, FACUA, a Spanish consumer watchdog, is already claiming that Ryanair’s latest policy is in violation of the nation’s aviation laws.
The group has stated that travelers are permitted to bring all hand luggage – unless the items in question are too large or heavy – into the cabin. According to the outlet, FACUA has defended its claims by quoting an excerpt from within the nation’s “Ley de Navegación Aérea” or air navigation law.
This excerpt, reports the outlet, explains that, “The transport provider will be obliged to transport free of charge in the cabin, such as hand luggage, the objects and packages that the traveller carries with them. The only exception to deny transportation is safety reasons, linked to the weight or size of the object, in relation to the characteristics of the aircraft.”
Ryanair, however, has dismissed FACUA’s stance. A spokesperson for the carrier was quoted as saying, “These claims are clearly false. No airline allows all passengers to bring all their bags on the aircraft.”
On its website, the carrier explains how these new rules will differ from those currently in place, stating, “Previously, all non-priority customers could bring 1 (small) carry-on bag and 1 bigger (wheelie) bag free of charge. The bigger bag was tagged at the gate and put in the hold (for free)…From November, non-priority customers can only bring 1 free (small) carry-on bag – there will be no free gate bags.”
It adds, “Only priority customers can continue to bring two free bags. (1 small carry-on + 1 wheelie bag).”
[Photo: Shutterstock]
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I'm generally for unbundled fares, allowing passengers to buy just what they need, ie luggage, food or specific seats. And I think the Spanish consumer group's claim is nonsense, as the law specifically states that the airline can limit hand luggage based on size and weight - which is exactly what Ryan Air is doing. BUT people need to be aware of just how small that personal item on Ryan Air is: While they have increased the size, it's still smaller than most laptop backpacks and many bags or daypacks specifically sold as "Personal Items"! Ryan Air's personal item is smaller than most other carrier definitions and you should measure your bag before you go, so you are not forced to check it for a high fee when you get there! The details are hidden in the fine print, you can find a review of the new policy: https://dreamtravelonpoints.com/ryan-air-changes-carry-on-policy-now-worst-in-europe/
Im ok with this. As long as Im still allowed to bring what I need for the flight, then I am happy to pay for the transportation of additional items. Pay for what you use is a perfectly acceptable policy to me (I pay less if I want less), especially if it means more space on the aircraft.
Ryanair needs to be taught a lesson. Airlines are becoming the new bullies in the air!
I know how frustrating it can be with luggage policies that keep changing. We are working on a special bag for the new RyanAir policy called the RyanMax - https://smartgear.travel/kickstarter/
Everyone wants cheaper fares. If i can get cheaper by carrying less stuff, great