You May Have Been Robbed (Politely) by Budget Airlines

Ryanair’s back in the EU hot seat — and this time, it’s not because someone clapped when the plane landed.

The low-cost carrier, along with six other European airlines, has been hit with a complaint to the European Commission over what’s being called “undue fees” for hand luggage. The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) isn’t mincing words — they claim the airlines are charging for what should be a basic right: carrying a reasonably sized bag onto the plane without forking over half your rent.

EasyJet, Wizz Air, and Vueling also made the naughty list, with BEUC calling for a full-blown EU investigation. According to them, the top EU court has already ruled this whole carry-on cash grab as illegal, a sentiment echoed by recent fines in Spain.

Ryanair, in true Ryanair fashion, shrugged and said they’re fully within their legal rights — citing EU Reg 1008/2008, which basically says airlines can charge what they like for optional services.

Now we’re not legal experts, but if your optional service is “bringing your own pants in a bag,” it might be time to rethink things.

At this point, Ryanair charging for hand luggage is like a Dublin pub charging for cutlery — technically legal, morally offensive.