Ryanair to increase underseat free bag size after EU changes
The budget airline currently allows people a small "personal bag" that must fit under the seat in front for free, but under current rules it must be less than 40x25x20cm.
Under new rules this would increase to 40x30x20cm.
While only a 5cm increase, it means the volume will be 24 litres instead of 20 litres - a big increase and a welcome outcome for many travellers.
But, it will still mean Ryanair offers a smaller 'free bag' that main rival easyJet, which currently allows 45x36x20cm (32 litres). Other budget competitor WizzAir already allows 40x30x20cm.
The date for the change isn't clear yet, but Ryanair said the change would be "implemented over the coming weeks, as our airport bag sizers are adjusted" - and would mean it's exceeding the EU's recommended minimum size.
Last week, European politicians said holidaymakers should be allowed a bag with a minimum size of 40x30x15cm - and crucially another up to 100cm and 7kg in weight - without an extra fee on top of their ticket.
A Ryanair spokesperson said last week: "The European Parliament should let travellers decide what services they want, what services they pay for and, importantly, what services they don't."
Even though the UK is no longer a member of the European Union, the rules would still impact British passengers as they cover EU-based airlines.
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The Guardian
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