Ryanair banned from charging for hand luggage by Portuguese court, reports Dagens Nyheter.

According to the ruling, Ryanair violated consumer rights by deliberately misleading consumers into underestimating the price of the flight. Ryanair has also been ordered to refund fees charged to a passenger.

Fees linked to larger cabin bags have become increasingly common among European airlines – despite the bags having standard dimensions (55x40x20 centimeters).

The only bag often allowed is a small one that fits under the seat, but according to the Portuguese court, hand luggage is an essential part of the contract of carriage and forcing passengers to pay for an extra service is against the rules.

Previously, Ryanair – along with EasyJet, Vueling and Volotea – has been fined by Spain's Ministry of Consumer Affairs for unfair fees linked to hand luggage.

Source: TT