Major airline makes free bag size increase after EU rule change proposed

Ryanair is increasing its underseat bag allowance by 20% after the EU set out proposed new laws for more free baggage.

The budget airline currently allows people a "personal bag" that fits under the seat in front for free, typically a handbag or small backpack. The maximum size is going up from 40x25x20cm to 40x30x20cm.

While only a 5cm increase, it means the volume will be 24 litres instead of 20 litres - which should allow space to cram in a few more T-shirts or pants. However, it still leaves Ryanair behind its main rival easyJet, which allows 45x36x20cm (32 litres), while WizzAir already allows 40x30x20cm.

Ryanair said the change would be "implemented over the coming weeks, as our airport bag sizers are adjusted" - and would mean it's exceeding the EU's recommended minimum size. Last week, European politicians said holidaymakers should be allowed a bag with a minimum size of 40x30x15cm - and crucially another up to 100cm and 7kg in weight - without an extra fee on top of their ticket.

It would be a major change as most budget airlines charge separately to put a larger bag in the overhead locker or in the hold. MEPs also said kids under 12 years old should be guaranteed a seat next to their accompanying passenger free of charge, and backed more protections for people with reduced mobility by making sure an accompanying person can travel free.

Read more:Ryanair and easyJet cancel hundreds of flightsFour charged after £7m of damage caused to RAF planes Charging for extras is a big part of budget carriers' business models, so it's no surprise they have expressed concern. A Ryanair spokesperson said last week: "The European Parliament should let travellers decide what services they want, what services they pay for and, importantly, what services they don't." Even though the UK is no longer a member of the European Union, the rules would still impact British passengers as they cover EU-based airlines.

The full proposals - put forward by the union's transport committee - must be voted on by the full parliament before they become law..