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Spanish Court Temporarily Suspends Fines Against Ryanair and Norwegian for Hand Luggage Fees

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An administrative court in Madrid has ordered the temporary suspension of fines imposed on two low-cost airlines, Ryanair and Norwegian Air, for charging passengers to carry larger hand luggage. The fines, totaling 109.6 million euros, were issued last year by Spain’s Ministry of Consumer Affairs.

The court acknowledged that it is currently impossible to definitively resolve the legal dispute and noted that immediate payment of the fines could severely impact the airlines’ financial situation.

Airlines Secure Legal Reprieve

The court’s ruling not only pauses the enforcement of the fines but also allows both airlines to continue applying their current hand luggage policies until a final judgment is issued. This provisional suspension marks the first legal victory for Ryanair and Norwegian in this dispute.

As part of the measure, the court has required both companies to provide bank guarantees totaling 111.8 million euros, covering both the original fines and accrued interest.

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Industry Stance: ALA Defends the Airlines

The Airline Association (ALA), which represents various carriers in the sector, welcomed the court’s decision. According to the ALA, the fines lack legal basis, infringe on customers’ freedom of choice, and distort the European single market.

In its statement, the ALA emphasized that the affected airlines will maintain their current fee policies while the case is resolved in court. The organization also expressed hope that the court’s decision would eventually extend to other airlines fined by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs.

Other Airlines Under Scrutiny

The case is not limited to Ryanair and Norwegian. Last year, the total fines imposed by the Ministry reached 179 million euros and also involved other low-cost carriers such as Vueling, easyJet, and Volotea, all accused of violating consumer rights.

The contested practices include not only charges for larger hand luggage but also additional fees for seat selection, boarding pass printing, and the refusal to accept cash payments at check-in counters or onboard flights.

The dispute goes beyond mere fines. The final ruling could have significant implications for the low-cost airline business model in Spain and across Europe. Meanwhile, travelers will continue to face the current fee policies for additional services until a definitive resolution is reached.

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