EU proposes two free cabin baggage items

It would allow a handbag or small backpack, as well as conventional hand luggage of up to 7kg at no cost.

Several low fare airlines allow only one small item for free.

Trade group Airlines for Europe (A4E) is opposing the move.

It says it will lead to higher prices for all, including customers who travel light.

“Forcing a mandatory trolley bag obliges passengers to pay for services they may not want or need,” said A4E managing director Ourania Georgoutsakou.

The proposal if passed would apply to all flights to and from the 27 nations that make up the European Union.

It was an amendment adopted as part of a wider air passenger rights charter proposed by the European Commission.

The proposal will next be up for a full parliamentary vote.