Spain Fines Budget Airlines €179 Million for Abusive Practices

Spain's Consumer Rights Ministry has fined five low-cost airlines, including Ryanair, EasyJet, Vueling, Norwegian, and Volotea, a total of €179 million for 'abusive practices.' These practices involve charging extra fees for hand luggage, seat reservations for minors and dependents, and providing misleading information affecting price transparency. Ryanair received the largest fine of €108 million, and the penalties have been labeled 'very serious' under Spain's Consumer Protection Law. The fines reflect the illicit profits generated by these practices, with the ministry dismissing appeals from the airlines. The airlines plan to challenge the fines in court, arguing they are 'illegal' and violate European Union market rules. This marks a significant enforcement action against budget airlines' business models that rely on supplementary fees.