Quantcast

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

UNI Global Union, alongside 160 trade unions, NGOs, and civil society organizations, has urged the European Union to protect legislation that safeguards human rights, the environment, and climate initiatives.

Jan 14, 2025

The World Players Association, in collaboration with the EuroLeague Players Association, is set to host the inaugural Player Health and Safety Summit.

Jan 14, 2025

Air New Zealand has concluded another significant year, according to Chief Executive Officer Greg Foran.

Jan 14, 2025

Kid Rock, an acclaimed American musician, known for his work as a singer, rapper, and songwriter, has made significant strides in the music industry since the late 1980s.

Jan 13, 2025

Icelandair has announced the introduction of its Airbus A321LR aircraft to its North American routes, marking a significant step in the airline's fleet expansion.

Jan 13, 2025

Commercial air travel has made significant strides with larger aircraft and increased passenger capacity.

Jan 13, 2025