Originally Posted by European Commission

European Commission postpones introduction of rules on maximum cabin baggage size

The Commission decided to postpone the implementation of rules on maximum cabin baggage size, as more time is needed to reassess the advantages and disadvantages they entail, notably regarding air security and passengers' comfort.

Vice-President Jacques Barrot declared: "The Commission has shown that it is willing to listen to good arguments from stakeholders, who sought to delay the introduction of European rules on cabin baggage size. We therefore feel that it is in the best interest of European citizens to postpone their introduction until May 2008".

The rulemaking – adopted as part of the review of the Commission Regulation (EC) No 1546/2006[1] – sought to limit the maximum size of cabin bags to 56cm x 45cm x 25cm. This reflected common practice by many airlines since it was long time ago agreed by industry as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) standard for safety reasons. The aim of the measure was to make it simpler for airport screening staff to detect prohibited articles in cabin baggage.

The European Commission has invited the European Civil Aviation Conference (ECAC) to evaluate the security benefits that accrue from a limit on cabin bag size over the next 12 months. Their report would be presented to the Commission by December 2007, along with any additional information provided by Member States and stakeholder associations. Further decision will be taken based on the analysis of this input.

This decision to delay the introduction of the rule on cabin bag size is part of the implementation of the review clause inserted into Regulation 1546/2006 that ensures its contents are reviewed at least every six months.