Quantcast

IATA opposes Spanish decision on cabin baggage regulations

IATA opposes Spanish decision on cabin baggage regulations
Research
Webp et3crdsezqvbm4nqjv1y0ij66qgi
Anton Grove Senior Vice President, People, Performance & Development (PPD) | International Air Transport Association - IATA

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has expressed strong opposition to a recent decision by Spain regarding cabin baggage regulations. The organization argues that the law would limit consumer choice and value for money. According to independent polling commissioned by IATA from Savanta, 97% of recent air travelers in Spain were satisfied with their last trip. The survey revealed that 65% prefer paying the lowest possible ticket price and opting for additional services as needed, while 66% believe there is sufficient transparency on airline fees.

Furthermore, 78% of respondents consider air travel to be good value for money, and 74% feel well-informed about airline products and services. These findings are consistent with a European Commission survey indicating that 89% of travelers across Europe feel informed about luggage allowances.

IATA contends that various business models in the airline industry cater to market demand and should not be subject to regulation. Ancillary revenue is crucial for low-cost carriers (LCCs), which have made air travel more accessible to lower-income groups.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

The association also claims that Spain's actions contradict EU law. A similar attempt in 2010 was overturned by the EU Court of Justice, which upheld pricing freedom under Article 22 of Regulation No 1008/2008. IATA asserts that this latest move conflicts with European principles of pricing freedom.

Willie Walsh stated, "They failed once, and they will fail again. Consumers deserve better than this retrograde step which ignores the realities of today’s travelers." He emphasized the significance of affordable airfares in supporting Spain's tourism sector, which accounts for nearly 13% of GDP.

Walsh also highlighted the costs associated with carrying cabin bags, noting how extended boarding times can impact airline profitability on short-haul routes. "Everyone paying more for less choice is the worst possible outcome that a regulation could deliver," he added.

For further details, Corporate Communications can be contacted at +41 22 770 2967.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

The Airline Pilots Association (ALPA) has issued a statement on X, urging policymakers to prioritize the ongoing modernization of air traffic control (ATC) systems.

Jul 31, 2025

ITA Airways announced on X that it is extending the suspension of flights to and from Tel Aviv through September 30, including the cancellation of flights AZ809 and AZ815 on October 1.

Jul 31, 2025

Emirates has announced on X its plans to launch daily flights from Dubai to Hangzhou, marking an expansion of its network in China.

Jul 31, 2025

Ethiopian Airlines has announced on X that it is now operating twice-daily flights from Juba, South Sudan, to India, enhancing connectivity for travelers.

Jul 31, 2025

Francesco Sciortino will join the Executive Board of Lufthansa Airlines as Hub Manager for Frankfurt starting September 1, 2025.

Jul 31, 2025

Eurowings reported stable performance for the first half of 2025, operating 77,000 flights and transporting over 10 million passengers.

Jul 31, 2025