Budget airline easyJet is facing a consumer complaint in Spain over the way it sells checked baggage on return flights.
Consumer group FACUA-Consumidores en Acción has asked Spain’s Ministry of Consumer Affairs to investigate the airline’s booking system. The organisation claims passengers must pay for checked luggage on both legs of a return journey, even when they only need a suitcase for one flight.
What is the complaint about?
FACUA says passengers booking through the easyJet website can select checked luggage in several weight categories.
However, the organisation claims the system automatically adds the baggage option to both the outbound and return flights. According to FACUA, passengers cannot always choose checked luggage for just one part of the journey.
The consumer group argues that customers may end up paying for a service they do not want or need.
FACUA believes this practice may breach Spanish consumer protection rules and has asked the ministry to examine the issue.
Could easyJet face a fine?
Spanish authorities have not launched any sanctions against easyJet at this stage.
FACUA wants regulators to decide whether the airline’s booking process conflicts with consumer protection laws. If authorities agree, they could order easyJet to change the system and potentially impose financial penalties.
The complaint centres on rules that require companies to display prices clearly and obtain a customer’s consent before adding optional services.
Another dispute involving airline fees
The complaint comes as airlines continue to face pressure over extra charges.
Spanish authorities have already challenged several low-cost airlines over fees linked to hand luggage and seat selection. easyJet has previously disputed some of those decisions.
This latest case focuses specifically on checked baggage charges rather than cabin luggage.
Italy is also examining the issue
Consumer authorities in Italy are looking at a similar complaint.
Italian regulators are investigating allegations linked to the online purchase of checked luggage and sports equipment on return flights.
The investigation remains ongoing.
What does this mean for passengers?
Passengers can continue booking easyJet flights as normal while authorities review the complaint.
However, travellers who only need checked luggage on one leg of a journey may want to check baggage options carefully before completing their booking.
The complaint does not mean easyJet has broken any rules. Spanish authorities must first decide whether the airline’s booking process complies with consumer legislation.
If regulators rule against the airline, easyJet may have to change how it sells checked luggage on its website.
For many expats and holidaymakers travelling between Spain and the UK, the outcome could make it easier to pay only for the baggage services they actually need.
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