EasyJet has confirmed that new EU hand luggage rules, expected to apply from October 2027, will not benefit passengers flying out of the UK. The airline informed Which? that any increased hand luggage allowance will only apply to return flights from EU countries, a policy that extends to all British airlines.
From late 2027, all EU air passengers purchasing a standard ticket are expected to be entitled to both an under-seat bag and a cabin bag. This follows a provisional agreement on new air passenger rights rules reached by European Parliament and Council negotiators in June, marking the first revision since 2004.
The European Parliament stated that the new rules include "the right to carry on board, without additional fee, one personal item, such as a small bag or backpack." This is in addition to a small personal bag that must fit under the seat. The ruling has been interpreted to mean passengers will receive a free personal item and one cabin bag, weighing up to 7kg with combined dimensions of 100cm.
As EasyJet UK is not an EU airline, it will not be subject to these new rules for outbound journeys, a situation that applies to all UK airlines, including British Airways and Jet2. However, passengers flying back from a European airport would be subject to the new regulations. EasyJet added that it is reviewing its rules, alongside other UK airlines, in preparation for the new luggage rules, which are expected to come into effect in October 2027 at the earliest.