Passengers flying from the UK will not receive the new free cabin bag allowance introduced under upcoming European aviation rules, easyJet has confirmed.
The airline said the changes will apply only to flights returning from EU countries, leaving outbound journeys from British airports outside the new system. The rules are expected to take effect from October 2027 at the earliest after European lawmakers agreed on a revised passenger rights framework.
New EU Rules Will Give Passengers More Free Cabin Space
The agreement between the European Parliament and Council negotiators introduces new rights for air travelers across the European Union.
Under the planned rules, passengers buying standard tickets will be entitled to carry a personal item and a small cabin bag without paying an additional fee. The cabin bag must weigh up to 7kg and have combined dimensions of 100cm.
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.”
The personal item refers to a smaller bag that fits underneath the seat in front of the passenger.
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EasyJet Says UK Flights Will Follow Different Rules
According to The Independent, easyJet told consumer group Which? that the upcoming baggage changes would not apply to passengers departing from the United Kingdom.
The airline explained that its UK operations are not covered by the new EU requirements for outbound flights because easyJet UK is not an EU-based carrier. The same situation applies to other British airlines, including British Airways and Jet2.
Passengers traveling from an EU airport back to the UK would be covered by the new rules, meaning the same traveler could have different baggage rights depending on the direction of their journey.
EasyJet said it is reviewing its baggage policies alongside other UK airlines before the rules come into force.
Passenger Rights Reform Marks First Major Update In Years
The new baggage measures are part of a broader revision of European air passenger rights legislation, which has not undergone a major update since 2004.
The agreement aims to create more consistent rules for travelers across EU member states. It also includes provisions allowing airlines to sell cheaper fares to passengers who decide to travel without hand luggage.
The final approach to this pricing model has not yet been fully defined, leaving airlines to determine how optional baggage-free fares will work once the legislation is implemented.
For passengers, the changes mean that ticket conditions could become more predictable on many European routes, while travelers using UK airlines from British airports may still face separate baggage policies.
Airlines Prepare For The 2027 Implementation Date
Airlines operating in Europe will need to adjust their systems before the new requirements begin. Carriers will have to update ticket options, baggage information, and customer communication before the rules become active.
The legislation is expected to enter into force no earlier than October 2027, with airlines continuing to assess how the changes will affect their services.
EasyJet has confirmed that it is currently reviewing its approach to hand luggage rules ahead of the planned implementation date.
