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IATA takes aim at Spain over cabin baggage fees
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has called out the Spanish government’s move to fine airlines €179 million over cabin baggage fees.
IATA says the decision overrides European law and undermines freedom of pricing.
“This is an appalling decision. Far from protecting the consumer interest, this is a slap in the face of travellers who want choice,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s Director General.
Prohibiting all airlines from charging for cabin bags means that the cost will be automatically priced into all tickets. This move by the Spanish government is unlawful and must be stopped.”
Consumers want choice and value for money. This law would remove both.”
IATA says nearly two-thirds of fliers prefer to pay the lowest price possible for their air ticket and pay extra for any additional services.
Additionally, a similar number agreed that there is sufficient transparency on fees charged by airlines.
Walsh says Spain is trying to ‘subvert pricing freedom’ by prioritising a different Spanish Law which is in conflict to European law.
In contrast, airlines are not totally transparent with their bag fee pricing, says Which?
“Which? research has shown that add-on fees for bags and seats can drive up the price of so-called low-cost flights by hundreds of pounds,” said Rocio Concha, Director of Policy and Advocacy.
“The UK government should ensure that additional fees for add-ons like seat selection and luggage are made clear at the very start of the booking process.”
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Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
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