The Official Journal of the European Union (EU) published on 2 October 2026 the law revising passenger rights; the European Parliament confirmed that the changes to hand luggage rules are to take effect on 23 October 2027.
Publication date and transition period
The law was published on 2 October 2026 in the Official Journal of the EU, and the final effective date has been set for 23 October 2027. Until then, the current conditions remain in force, under which each airline independently determines its baggage carriage rules.
Therefore, passengers are advised to check which hand luggage is included in a specific fare when buying a ticket. The transition period gives carriers time to adjust their fare offerings and to display the cost of services.
One free personal item and its dimensions
Under the new rules passengers will be allowed to bring one small personal item on board free of charge, which must fit under the seat in front. The maximum dimensions for this personal item are set at 40×30×15 cm.
For larger suitcases carried into the cabin, there are no uniform size and weight requirements, so the possibility of carrying such suitcases free of charge will depend on the specific airline’s rules and the chosen fare. The new rules will not oblige carriers to accept large suitcases in the cabin on equal terms.
Displaying ticket price and fare models
Airlines will have to show the ticket price together with the cost of one hand-luggage space before the start of the booking process. This should make it easier to compare offers from different carriers when base price and add-on services are split.
The existing fare system will remain: carriers will be able to offer different fares — for example, Basic, Light or Flex — and keep low-cost tickets that do not include carriage of larger hand luggage. Additional charges may also apply for hold baggage, seat selection and other services.
The changes will also affect Ukrainian passengers flying to or through EU countries, since they will determine which hand luggage can be taken free of charge and how the final ticket price is displayed at purchase.
