British low-cost airline EasyJet has firmly rejected European Union proposals to mandate free cabin baggage for all passengers, cautioning that such regulations would inevitably lead to higher ticket prices across its network.
The European Parliament’s recent vote represents a significant victory for consumer rights advocates who have long criticized airlines for charging fees they consider excessive or unfair. The legislation would require carriers to permit passengers to bring both personal items and larger carry-on bags at no additional cost.
However, EasyJet’s leadership contends that this approach misunderstands how modern budget airlines operate. The ability to charge separately for optional services allows carriers to maintain lower base fares that benefit passengers who travel with minimal luggage or prioritize price over amenities.
Operational concerns compound the economic objections. Limited cabin storage means that increased carry-on allowances would simply shift the problem rather than solve it, forcing staff to gate-check bags and creating the very delays that airlines and passengers alike have worked to minimize.
The airline faces near-term financial pressures with quarterly losses of £93 million but sees encouraging trends in booking activity and route performance. EasyJet is also evaluating potential technology partnerships that could enhance the passenger experience in coming years.