**Ryanair Announces Increased Free Cabin Baggage Allowance Amid European Changes**
Ryanair, a major player in Europe’s low-cost aviation sector, is set to introduce a significant revision to its free cabin baggage policy in response to recent directives emanating from the European Commission. The Irish airline, often recognised for its strict baggage rules, will soon permit passengers to carry a larger personal bag on board without additional charges. This adjustment, which will commence within the coming weeks, comes as airlines across the continent face growing pressure to harmonise their hand luggage allowances.
Currently, Ryanair travellers may take a personal bag measuring 40 x 25 x 20cm with them, amounting to an overall capacity of 20 litres. However, under the airline’s new rules—timed to coincide with the peak summer holiday period—customers will be permitted to bring a bag up to 40 x 30 x 20cm, expanding the maximum volume to 24 litres. According to company officials, this change is not only a nod to passenger convenience but also aligns with the European Commission’s push for more uniform rules across the industry.
In a statement reflecting the carrier’s commitment to regulatory compliance, a Ryanair spokesperson clarified: “Our free personal bag size will increase to 40 x 30 x 20cm, making it more generous than the newly established EU minimum. Implementation will be rolled out as we update our airport bag sizers.” The spokesperson reaffirmed that the adjustment would remain free of charge to all passengers, dispelling any speculation of imminent fees.
The initiative stems from broad discussions between Airlines for Europe (A4E)—the continent’s principal airline association—and European Union authorities. As referenced by A4E managing director Ourania Georgoutsakou, standardising cabin baggage is intended to eliminate confusion among passengers, especially those navigating different rules across airlines. “This move promises more clarity and consistency for everyone, from frequent city-breakers to families on summer holidays,” she remarked.
Despite the EU’s drive towards streamlined policies, several carriers already boast hand luggage allowances that surpass the proposed standard. EasyJet, for instance, permits holdall dimensions up to 45 x 36 x 20cm (32 litres), while Jet2 and British Airways also currently exceed the minimum. As a result, Ryanair appears to be the only leading airline making immediate changes to conform to the common standard, with other airlines signalling that their current policies will remain unchanged for the foreseeable future.
Of note, these alterations are not without logistical hurdles. Airports throughout Europe will be required to adapt their existing baggage sizers, potentially rendering some passengers’ compliant luggage obsolete. Travellers are advised to check with airlines prior to flying, to ensure their baggage fits the updated requirements.
Beyond hand baggage size, the debate over what should be included in the standard fare continues. The European Parliament has backed proposals for passengers to carry two cabin items, suggesting further changes might be on the horizon. This draft legislation would entitle fliers to a free bag weighing up to 7kg and measuring no more than 100cm, in addition to a smaller item for under-seat storage. Not all airlines are in favour; Ryanair, alongside easyJet and Wizz Air, has voiced concerns about the viability of accommodating two free bags per traveller.
If the European Parliament’s proposals are ultimately enacted, it could mean a substantial shift for budget-focused carriers—many of whom currently only allow a single under-seat bag as part of the ticket price and charge extra for larger cabin baggage. Discussions remain ongoing, with A4E confirming all its member airlines will have the guaranteed minimum dimension of 40 x 30 x 15cm in place before next summer ends, although companies are at liberty to grant more generous allowances if desired.
Ultimately, these developments reflect a growing momentum toward greater transparency and fairness in air travel, as both regulators and airlines strive to balance operational requirements with customer expectations. Ryanair, for its part, continues to grow in popularity, with reported passenger numbers hitting 19.9 million in June alone—a rise of 3 per cent on the previous year—demonstrating continued demand despite ongoing debates over baggage rules.
As the summer season draws near, passengers planning their trips with Ryanair—and indeed across Europe—are encouraged to stay abreast of evolving baggage policies. With regulatory efforts aiming to bring about increased clarity and the possibility of further reforms on the table, the issue of what a ticket ‘really’ includes remains as relevant as ever.