Spain Fines Ryanair, EasyJet, and Other Airlines 150 Million Euros Over Cabin Luggage Fees

In a significant move against several budget airlines, Spanish authorities have imposed fines totaling 150 million euros ($163 million) on Ryanair, EasyJet, Vueling, and Volotea. This decision comes after a lengthy six-year campaign led by consumer groups OCU and Facua, which argued that the airlines’ charges for certain services violated customer rights.

The fines challenge the core business models of these airlines, which rely on offering low base ticket prices with additional charges for extras, such as larger carry-on bags—a service that used to be included at no extra cost by traditional airlines. According to Spain’s Consumer Rights Ministry, the fines were issued for practices that include charging extra for larger carry-on luggage, seat selection, and boarding pass printouts, as well as not accepting cash payments at check-in desks or for on-board purchases.

This enforcement action, initiated after an investigation launched in 2023, marks a pivotal moment in consumer rights within the airline industry. The OCU expects this decision to set a precedent that other European countries will follow, targeting similar “abusive practices.”

However, the Spanish airline industry group ALA has criticized the fines, arguing that they violate European Union single market regulations and the airlines’ pricing freedoms. ALA President Javier Gandara contended that this ruling could negatively impact up to 50 million passengers who travel light, with just a small bag under their seat, by forcing them to pay for services they do not need.

Despite a 2019 Spanish court ruling that Ryanair’s hand luggage fee policy was “abusive”, the airline continued the practice, citing its commercial freedom to set baggage policies. This latest ruling underscores the ongoing tension between consumer rights and airline revenue strategies.

The Consumer Rights Ministry did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the fines. Ryanair, Volotea, and Vueling have declined to comment directly, allowing ALA to represent them in public statements.

This development may have far-reaching implications for budget airlines operating within the EU, potentially prompting them to reconsider their fee structures and service policies.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, reuters.com