The hand luggage war has reached Brussels – the foundations of the low-cost model are in danger

Ryanair has appealed and the case is now before the European Commission. Brussels has launched infringement proceedings against Spain because the fine may violate EU law that protects the freedom of service providers to set prices. The case could even lead to a precedent-setting ruling that could transform the entire low-cost sector.

The debate is also accompanied by personal tones: Ryanair CEO Michael O’Leary called the EU intervention “a victory for consumers”, while Spanish Minister Pablo Bustinduy said the hand luggage fee was “an abusive practice”.

The stakes are high: more than a third of Ryanair’s annual revenue – €4.7 billion – comes from ancillary fees, including baggage fees and priority boarding. If the EU decides to allow free hand luggage, it could cost low-cost airlines billions in lost revenue and force entirely new business models into the industry.

Meanwhile, the European Parliament has adopted a position that passengers should be entitled to carry at least 7 kilograms of hand luggage free of charge. If this becomes law, it could open up a new era in European air travel, not just for Ryanair, but for all low-cost airlines.