MEP calls for 'consistent' EU rules on airline baggage

A UK MEP is calling for a “consistent” policy on cabin baggage allowance across the EU to prevent confusion.

Since a terrorist plot to blow up a number of transatlantic flights was foiled in August 2006, passengers at UK airports have been restricted to one piece of hand luggage.

That rule was relaxed on Monday at 22 airports, including Heathrow, Stansted, Glasgow, Manchester and Cardiff.

But it remains at others, notably Gatwick (except for some connecting flights), Luton, Leeds Bradford and Liverpool.

These airports have failed to demonstrate to the UK department for transport that they can cope with easing the rules.

To add to the potential confusion, budget airlines EasyJet and Ryanair are retaining the old rule regardless of which airport its passengers fly from.

Tim Kirkhope, transport spokesman for the Conservatives in parliament, said the latest move was a recipe for confusion.

He said, "Allowing some passengers to carry more than one bag on board and not others has created a ridiculous disparity.

“Some 22 airports, including Heathrow, have relaxed the restrictions, while others, including Gatwick, have not.

“The situation is plain daft and very confusing for passengers now facing a hodgepodge of rules and restrictions.

“We need one consistent policy across the EU."

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