Spain Fines European Airlines €179 Million Over Passenger Fee Practices

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BARCELONA— The Spanish Ministry of Consumer Affairs has fined five low-cost European airlines a combined €179 million for a series of commercial practices deemed abusive under consumer protection laws.

The airlines, such as Ryanair (FR), Vueling (VY), EasyJet (U2), Norwegian (DY), and Volotea (V7), were penalized for charging passengers for standard services. These airlines were reportedly charging passengers for services like carry-on luggage, seat assignments, and boarding pass printing.

This is one of the biggest actions the EU has taken so far against airlines over extra charges. This will be increasing pressure on airlines to bring more clarity and fairness to how fees are applied.

Spain Fines EU Airlines

The largest share of the fines, which is €107 million, was imposed on Ryanair. Ryanair has a dominant presence in the Spanish market. Vueling, the Barcelona-based low-cost airline owned by IAG, was fined €39 million. This makes it the second-highest penalized carrier in the group.

EasyJet received a penalty of €29 million. It is a major British budget airline that has a strong footprint across Southern Europe. Two smaller carriers were also fined. Volotea, a Spanish airline headquartered in Asturias, was fined €1.9 million. Norwegian, which has significantly scaled back its European operations in recent years, faced a fine of €1.6 million.

Together, the five airlines were held responsible for a cumulative €179 million in penalties. This marks one of the most aggressive enforcement of consumer protection rules in EU aviation to date.

According to Spain’s Ministry of Consumer Affairs, the penalties target repeated and systematic charges for services that were once standard. The airlines were charging for services such as traveling with a cabin bag, sitting with family members, or obtaining a paper boarding pass at the airport.

Authorities argue these practices violate EU consumer rights laws since this creates misleading fare structures and unfair charges for travelers. Especially those less familiar with digital-only check-in procedures or those traveling with children.

EU Regulatory Momentum

Spain’s enforcement action comes amid a push across the European Union to rein in ancillary airline fees. In June 2025, the European Parliament’s Transport Committee advanced a proposal to standardize hand luggage allowances across all EU carriers.

The amendment defines a carry-on bag of up to 7 kg and 100 cm (combined dimensions) and a personal item as part of the base fare. If passed, the legislation would require adoption. The new amendment could come into force by late 2025 or early 2026.

Consumer advocacy groups, including the European Consumer Organisation (BEUC), have strongly supported the effort. In May 2025, BEUC and 15 national organizations filed a formal complaint with the European Commission.

The complaint was against seven airlines for non-transparent baggage fees—three of which are included in Spain’s latest ruling.

Airlines Push Back on Ruling

Spain’s airline trade body, ALA, has pushed back against the ruling. They cited more than 40 Spanish court decisions that upheld the legality of baggage fees under EU Regulation 1008/2008.

Airlines argue that unbundled fares make air travel more accessible by allowing customers to pay only for services they use.

They also warn that banning such fees could lead to higher base fares and erode their low-cost model. Ryanair and Vueling, two of the most fined carriers, have not yet responded in detail to the penalties. Both are expected to challenge the ruling in Spanish and EU courts.

What will Change for Travelers?

For passengers, the fines and upcoming regulatory changes could mean more transparent ticket pricing. There will also be fewer unexpected charges at the airport.

The Spanish ministry emphasized that fees for carry-on bags, check-in services, or seat assignments must be clearly explained and justified.

The practice of separating families unless a surcharge is paid was specifically highlighted as discriminatory. Spain’s €179 million enforcement adds weight to a growing consensus that basic travel services should not come at a hidden cost.

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