In early April, the European Commission reignited the heated debate over cabin baggage. In a response to the European Parliament, Apostolos Tzitzikostas, commissioner for sustainable transport and tourism, confirmed that Brussels was working on harmonising the rules to put an end to the “confusion” caused by airlines’ differing policies. In a parliamentary response published on Monday 18 May, the minister for mobility, Yuriko Backes (DP), advocates a more flexible approach, citing Luxair’s operational constraints and ticket prices.

The question was raised by the MP Yves Cruchten (LSAP), which asked the minister about Luxembourg’s position in the European discussions on the revision of aviation rules. In her reply, the minister acknowledged that ‘the argument that a “one-size-fits-all” rule for cabin baggage would make life easier for passengers may seem convincing at first glance’. But she quickly dismantles this logic. In her view, European harmonisation would risk coming up against the reality of the global aviation sector, particularly for non-European airlines operating on the continent.

The Luxembourg government is particularly concerned about the potential impact on ticket prices. At present, many low-cost airlines charge for cabin baggage. According to the minister, making it a standard inclusion in the ticket price would effectively eliminate “the cheapest entry-level fare”. Put simply, travellers who currently choose to travel light could end up paying more in future.

Backes defends Luxair

Luxembourg also defends the unique characteristics of regional airlines such as Luxair. Yuriko Backes points out that the airline’s fleet comprises a mix of De Havilland Q400s, Embraer E195s and Boeing 737s, with storage capacities that vary significantly from one aircraft to another. “We could not guarantee cabin transport for all ‘standardised’ luggage if every passenger wanted to bring one,” she warns.

The government therefore prefers a different approach. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach imposed from Brussels, it advocates for “a more harmonised application of existing rules” and, above all, “transparent communication with passengers from the moment of booking”. The stated aim is to avoid unpleasant surprises at the point of boarding, without further stifling a sector that is already under pressure.

However, the matter is far from settled. The issue is currently being discussed as part of the review of the EU regulation on air passenger rights and is the subject of a conciliation procedure between the European Parliament and the Council. Brussels is also planning a review of the regulation on air services in 2026, a process in which Luxembourg clearly intends to play a role in order to preserve a degree of flexibility.