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As the April 25 and May 1 holiday season approaches, it is easy to come across sensationalist news stories promising revolutions in air travel. But beware: much of this “news” is nothing more than fake news. Here’s what you really need to know before you leave.
What Hasn’t Changed
Baggage limits unchanged. Low cost companies have not changed the size or weight allowed for carry-on baggage.
Paper boarding pass always valid. It will not be abolished on May 1.
No fines for being late to the gate. If you miss your flight because you arrive late, you can rebook on the first available flight by paying the “missed-flight surcharge” (this is not an infinite penalty, but a standard fare).
Fake News vs. Reality
Many sites and social media have given for certain the introduction of exaggerated fines for late arrivals or diabolical changes on trolleys. In reality, applying “legal” fines for gate access is impossible: the EU Regulation clearly distinguishes between the contract of carriage and passenger rights.
Luggage: Measurements to Make at Home
To avoid surprises at the airport, measure and weigh your luggage before you leave home. Here are the limits of the most popular companies:
Hand luggage “small”
Ryanair: 40×20×25 cm
easyJet: 45×36×20 cm
Wizz Air: 40×30×20 cm
ITA Airways: 45×36×20 cm
Hand luggage “large” (cabin)
Ryanair: 55×40×20 cm, up to 10 kg
easyJet: 56×45×25 cm, up to 15 kg
Wizz Air: 55×40×23 cm, up to 10 kg
ITA Airways: 55×35×25 cm, up to 8 kg
What Happens if You Exceed the Limits
If your trolley is oversized or too heavy, be prepared to pay a surcharge directly at the gate:
Ryanair: € 70
easyJet: €60
Wizz Air: variable depending on ticket type
ITA Airways: variable depending on ticket type
Flight Loss Supplement
In case of delay and missed departure, you can still get on the next flight by paying:
Ryanair: €100 (within 1 hour of departure)
easyJet: €129 (within 2 hours)
Wizz Air: €80
ITA Airways: ND
Practical Tips
Always weigh and measure. Better to use a luggage scale and a tape measure.
Print the boarding pass. Although many prefer digital, the paper one remains accepted.
Arrive early. An extra hour avoids stress and “extra flight loss.”
To guide you through the rules and penalties, RimborsoAlVolo has prepared a detailed guide to the major Italian airlines: find it at rimborsoalvolo.it.
Have a good trip-no fake news!
FAQ
Are there new restrictions on carry-on baggage for flights during the April 25 and May 1 holiday season?
No, the allowed dimensions and weights remain the same. Ryanair, easyJet, Wizz Air, and ITA Airways maintain the same limits as always for both “small” baggage (approx. 40-45 × 20-36 × 20 cm) and cabin trolley (up to 55 × 40 × 25 cm and 8-15 kg, depending on the airline).
Is the digital boarding pass mandatory or can I still use the paper one?
You can continue to use the paper boarding pass. All airlines accept both the printed boarding pass and the one shown on your smartphone.
Can I be fined if I arrive late at the gate?
There are no legal fines for gate delays. In case of missed departure you will only pay the “missed flight surcharge” stipulated in your ticket (e.g. Ryanair € 100, easyJet € 129, Wizz Air € 80), with no additional penalties.
How much is the surcharge if the luggage exceeds the allowed size or weight?
Ryanair: € 70
easyJet: €60
Wizz Air: variable depending on ticket
ITA Airways: variable depending on the ticket
