Brussels Court Backs Ryanair Cabin Bag Rules in Final Ruling

A Brussels commercial court has confirmed that Ryanair’s cabin baggage policy complies with European Union law, bringing a long-running dispute in Belgium to a close. Consumer organisation Test Achats has decided not to appeal the ruling issued on 28 January, making the decision final and legally binding. The judgment confirms airlines may define baggage conditions within safety and legal limits set by EU regulations.

The court confirmed that passengers are entitled to bring one piece of hand luggage on board free of charge, provided it is reasonably sized and can be placed under the seat. Judges dismissed arguments that airlines must include larger cabin bags in standard fares. The court confirmed that Ryanair’s existing baggage rules comply with EU Regulation 1008/2008 and match earlier rulings issued by courts across Europe.

The ruling also rejected additional complaints related to fare pricing, seat selection policies and arrangements for families travelling together. Judges found no legal obligation requiring airlines to bundle optional services into ticket prices. The ruling places Belgium alongside earlier decisions in Italy, Germany and several Spanish courts, all of which supported airlines’ freedom to charge separately for larger cabin baggage or checked luggage services.

What the ruling confirms for air travel

• One small cabin bag remains included in the ticket
• Larger cabin bags may carry additional fees
• Optional services can be priced separately
• Airlines retain flexibility in fare structures

The outcome reinforces existing low-cost travel models across European routes, particularly on short-haul networks where fare flexibility plays a central role.

The ruling gives clearer guidance on baggage rules at the booking stage, where misunderstandings about fares often begin. It confirms what is included in a basic ticket and which items come with an additional charge. The case also shows how European courts are continuing to deal with disputes between passenger expectations and airline pricing practices as low-fare flying remains common across Europe.