EasyJet CEO Declares EU Free Cabin Luggage Laws Undermining Industry Progress

EasyJet’s chief executive has characterized European Union baggage proposals as undermining decades of aviation industry progress toward more efficient and consumer-friendly operations.
The legislative initiative would mandate free cabin baggage across European air travel. Parliamentary approval has positioned regulations for implementation requiring airlines to provide allowances for both personal items and larger carry-on bags.
Kenton Jarvis argues that the industry has evolved significantly over recent decades, developing business models and operational practices that better serve diverse passenger needs while maintaining affordability and efficiency.
The proposed regulations would force airlines to abandon proven practices and return to earlier operational models that were demonstrably less efficient. This represents regulatory interference that could reverse industry progress.
EasyJet generates more than £2.5 billion annually from ancillary services that support its business model. The carrier reported quarterly losses of £93 million while seeing encouraging trends in booking activity and expanding passenger interest in Mediterranean and North African destinations.