Spain hands huge fines to easyJet and Ryanair for hand luggage and seat reservation charges

EasyJet boss Johan Lundgren has hit out at what he calls "illegal" fines imposed on the airline and other carriers over extra charges for hand luggage and seat reservations.

Spain has fined five airlines - easyJet, Ryanair, Vueling, Volotea and Norwegian - a total of €179m (£149m) for "abusive practices" that target customers.

The consumer rights ministry said such practices include charging passengers for carrying hand luggage on the plane, making seat reservations, and other hidden fees.

EasyJet was handed a penalty of €29m (£24.2m).

Mr Lundgren told Sky News' Business Live programme that the decision was "illegal" in relation to European consumer law and "anti-consumer" - and confirmed the company would appeal.

"We completely disagree with this decision," he said, adding: "We don't expect this to go anywhere."

He said one third of easyJet customers don't choose to pay for extra add-ons.

"So why should they then take on the burden and the cost [of services] that other people want?" he said.

-SKY NEWS