preloaddefault-post-thumbnail

The introduction of new rules by the European Commission on the maximum size of hand luggage allowed in an aircraft cabin are to be delayed 12 months to allow for more consultation.

The Commission has said that its plans to introduce a law that would restrict the size of hand luggage to 56cm x 45cm x 25cm, the same dimensions adopted by airlines, are unlikely to be introduced until the middle of next year.

Jacques Barrot, Vice-President, said: “The Commission has shown that it is willing to listen to good arguments from stakeholders, who sought to delay the introduction of European rules on cabin baggage size. We therefore feel that it is in the best interest of European citizens to postpone their introduction until May 2008.”

The security measures currently in place across Europe restrict the amount of liquids and gels that can be carried on board jets, while the transport authorities of individual countries and airlines have worked together on maximum hand luggage size.

A standard size for hand-held baggage is seen as an effective way to ensure that security personnel at airports can process and spot any problems quickly, and the Commission is set to spend the rest of this year looking at the benefits gained from European-wide regulations.

About the author

Oonagh ShielContent Manager at Cheapflights whose travel life can be best summed up as BC (before children) and PC (post children). We only travel during the school holidays so short-haul trips and staycations are our specialities!

Explore more articles