EasyJet confirms when new EU hand luggage rules will apply

Passengers flying out of the UK will not benefit from a free item of hand luggage despite new rules in Europe, easyJet has said.

The airline told Which? that any increases in hand luggage allowance will not apply to travellers departing from the UK, “only on return flights from EU countries” – something that applies to all British airlines.

From late 2027, all EU air passengers will be entitled to both an under-seat bag and a cabin bag when they buy a standard ticket.

This follows a provisional agreement on new air passenger rights rules agreed by European Parliament and Council negotiators in June – the first revision since 2004.

The European Parliament said: “The new rules now include the right to carry on board, without additional fee, one personal item, such as a small bag or backpack.”

This is in addition to the one small personal bag that must fit under the seat in front of the passenger.

The ruling has been interpreted to mean that passengers will now be entitled to a free personal item – which fits under the seat in front – plus one cabin bag, weighing up to 7kg and having the combined dimensions of 100cm.

As easyJet UK is not an EU airline, it will not be subject to the new rules on outbound journeys – something that applies to all UK airlines, including British Airways and Jet2.

However, passengers flying back from an European airport would be subject to the new rules.

EasyJet added that it is reviewing its new rules, alongside all other UK airlines, in preparation for when the new luggage rules come into effect – expected in October 2027 at the earliest.

Members of the European Parliament also agreed to allow airlines to offer cheaper tickets for passengers who choose to travel without hand luggage, although it is not yet clear how this pricing will be applied.

The Independent has contacted easyJet for comment.

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