in-cyprus 21 October 2025 - by Ioanna Kyriakou
The European Parliament has approved proposals to ban airlines from charging fees for cabin baggage on EU flights, but the changes cannot become law without further negotiations and may take considerable time to implement.
The Transport and Tourism Committee approved the measures on 25 June, which would apply to all passengers travelling within the European Union.
However, the resolution is non-binding and it remains unclear whether and when the European Commission will consider the proposals.
Under the proposed rules, passengers would be allowed to carry personal bags measuring up to 40x30x15 centimetres free of charge, whilst carry-on baggage must not exceed 100 centimetres in total dimensions and seven kilogrammes in weight.
Any additional cabin baggage would remain subject to airline charges.
The proposals also include free adjacent seating for children under 12 travelling with companions, free assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, and compensation for damage to mobility equipment or assistance animals.
A standardised compensation form for cancellations, delays or denied boarding would be introduced, whilst booking intermediaries such as platforms or travel agencies would be required to process refunds within 14 days or transfer responsibility to the carrier.
When the rules might take effect
The Parliament’s resolution pressures for these changes in negotiations with the European Commission and EU Council, according to Euronews. Only when negotiations conclude with a compromise can any changes take effect.
The compromise text must then be voted on by both the European Parliament and Council before becoming law, meaning implementation could take considerable time.
100ml liquid limit lifted at airports with advanced scanners
In a separate development, the European Parliament has decided to abolish the 100 ml limit for liquids in cabin baggage at EU airports. The change is being implemented gradually at certain airports from July 2025.
The removal of the restriction applies only at airports where security checkpoints are equipped with new high-technology scanners.
Passengers travelling from airports with the new technology will be able to carry liquids up to two litres, including wine, perfumes, olive oil or other products, according to the Independent.
Airports in Berlin, Rome, Amsterdam and Milan have already adopted the technology, with the list expected to expand. However, major hubs such as London Heathrow do not yet have the necessary equipment. The use of new CT scanners is not mandatory, and implementation remains at each airport’s discretion.
The new scanners provide greater accuracy, whilst travellers will not need to remove laptops and tablets from their cabin baggage.
What passenger rights apply when flights go wrong
EU Regulation 261/2004 establishes passenger rights for cancellations, delays, denied boarding or lost luggage.
The provisions apply when flights operate within the EU by carriers from member states or third countries, arrive in the EU from outside and are operated by European carriers, or depart from EU countries to third countries regardless of the carrier’s origin.
If an airline refuses travel due to overbooking or operational reasons and the passenger did not voluntarily give up their seat, they are entitled to financial compensation, airport assistance and choice between ticket refund, alternative flight or later booking.
In case of cancellation, passengers may request refunds, alternative flights or return to the departure point.
Compensation of €250-€600 may apply under certain conditions. If cancellation is announced less than 14 days before departure, the carrier owes compensation unless it proves extraordinary circumstances.
For delays exceeding three hours at the final destination, passengers are entitled to compensation unless the cause is beyond the carrier’s control. For shorter delays, assistance such as meals, drinks, communication and accommodation is provided.
In case of lost, damaged or delayed baggage, relevant conventions stipulate carriers compensate up to approximately €1,200, except if the carrier proves it took all necessary measures.
Passengers experiencing these problems may contact the Department of Civil Aviation for cases involving Cypriot airlines and the European Consumer Centre Cyprus for cases involving European carriers.
