The Spanish government has fined four low-cost airlines €150 million for “unreasonable” charges to passengers.
In particular, the Spanish Ministry of Consumer Affairs has fined Ryanair, Volotea, Vueling and easyJet for charging passengers for hand luggage, requiring them to print their ticket, and other unreasonable practices such as booking seats for accompanying minors or persons requiring special assistance, lack of contractual transparency and banning cash payments.
The process was launched in 2023 by the office of Spain’s General Directorate of Consumer Affairs, following complaints from consumer organisations such as Facua, Spain’s largest consumer association, about “abusive practices” developed by airlines.
The airlines rejected the Spanish ministry’s decision and, in a statement issued by the Association of Spanish Airlines (ALA), which represents the airlines, explained that it is contrary to European regulations. In particular, it is contrary to the principle of freedom to set prices and ‘constitutes interference in the setting of tariffs’.
The notice specifies that all airlines include the free carriage of hand luggage placed under the seat.
ALA described the fines as “wholly disproportionate”.
The union’s president, Javier Gandara, said the fines would force passengers who wish to travel with only a small personal item to now pay for services they do not need.
“We are defending the consumer’s right to choose the best solution for their journey,” Mr Gandara said.
According to ALA’s calculations, 50 million passengers who currently travel with only carry-on bags placed under the seat will have to pay “more” for their ticket, ALA estimates. The industry argues that fares will “increase” if they can no longer offer the basic option as before. “It is nonsense to unilaterally ban charging, ignoring the opinion of the European Commission,” ALA said.
In addition, industry sources argue that if airlines are forced to pay the fine, Spain will lose its competitiveness compared to other countries that do not impose this regulation and can therefore offer cheaper prices.
According to ALA, this will affect economic activity, employment, connectivity and the attraction of investment in the country.
