Airline representative group the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has condemned a decision by the Spanish government to override European law, remove cabin baggage fees for passengers in Spain and fine airlines €179m.
According to IATA, the move undermines freedom of pricing, which is fundamental to consumer choice and competition, a principle that has been long upheld by the European Court of Justice; and will ultimately increase air fares.
IATA Director General, Willie Walsh, said: “This is an appalling decision. Far from protecting the consumer interest, this is a slap in the face of travellers who want choice. Prohibiting all airlines from charging for cabin bags means that the cost will be automatically priced into all tickets.
“What’s next? Forcing all hotel guests to pay for breakfast? Or charging everyone to pay for the coat-check when they buy a concert ticket? EU Law protects pricing freedom for good reason. And airlines offer a range of service models from all-inclusive to basic transport. This move by the Spanish government is unlawful and must be stopped.”
