IATA: For the time being, no standard size for hand luggage

For the time being, there will be no standard size for hand luggage on airplanes. The airline organization IATA wanted to put an end to the ambiguity of various sizes that companies now use, but barely a week after announcing the plan, IATA put it on hold again.

In North America in particular, there was resistance to the standard size. With a size of 55x35x20 cm, it would be considerably smaller than the suitcase sizes that are now allowed by most airlines. Two of the world's largest airlines, American Airlines and Delta, were against the plan. The number three in the world, United, was still hesitant.

The IATA proposal was received mainly positively by Dutch airlines. KLM, which also owns Transavia, was in favour. ArkeFly spoke of an interesting development, but did not yet have a position on it.

IATA now says the plan has caused much confusion. “This is clearly something that is close to the hearts of travelers.” The organization has now parked the plan and wants to better involve airlines in its development in the future.

IATA emphasizes that the standard size is a guideline and that airlines are free to also allow larger suitcases. "No customer is forced to buy a new suitcase," an IATA executive wrote in a statement.

Source: NOS.nl