Baggage on Trenitalia's Frecce, company tries again
First the announcement of new baggage regulations, then the about-face. Trenitalia was ready, indeed very ready, to revolutionize the way people travel [...]
First the announcement of new baggage regulations, then the about-face. Trenitalia was ready, indeed very ready, to revolutionize the way people travel by train but many passengers and several consumer associations have crossed arms: hence the decision not only to postpone the entry into force of the much-discussed new regulation but also, and more importantly, To open a table with the associations.Â
"In previous episodes..."
In this article:
At the end of February, Trenitalia, without any prior notice and without confronting consumer representatives, announced the imminent entry into force of a new regulation: According to the regulations, as of March 1, a maximum of 2 pieces of luggage per person would be allowed on board the Arrows; luggage, moreover, was supposed to have a certain size, which was 161 cm total (height + width + depth) for passengers in standard and premium classes and 183 cm for executive and business classes.
Not only that: if passengers did not comply with the luggage limit and/or allowable measurements they would receive a €50 fine and be forced to "unload" the extra luggage from the train. Dulcis in fundo, There was also a crackdown on bicycles and scooters in the new regulations: The rule-one of the most contested-required that they be stored inside a special bag and only in the luggage spaces.
After that, as stated, protests began and Trenitalia was forced to retrace its steps.Â
What's new
After the meeting between the railway company and consumer associations, according to reports from Assoutenti and Fiab, the Italian Environmental and Bicycle Federation - Moving toward a softening of the rules: first, the new luggage sizes should be the same for all classes, and all passengers will be entitled to 2 suitcases (plus bag, backpack and a possible stroller).Â
And who will not comply with the new rules? They will receive a penalty (well below the €50 stipulated in the first version of the new regulations...).Â