Trenitalia began a dialogue with several associations, including the Italian Environment and Bicycle Federation (FIAB), on March 6, following the cancellation of a regulation that imposed new baggage limits due to complaints from consumer associations. On Wednesday, the company listened to the associations' recommendations and shared its plan to commission a university study on the transport of bicycles and scooters on trains. The company is also drafting a regulation proposal that should be ready next week, with the aim of implementing these new rules just before the Easter holidays. Frecce passengers will likely be able to bring a maximum of two bags. Instead of a surcharge for a third bag, there will be a "significantly lower" fine of 50 euros, as initially planned.
The previous regulation, now definitively shelved, was due to come into force on March 1. These rules limited the number of suitcases on board the Frecce to two per passenger, with maximum dimensions specified for different classes. Trenitalia had said that these restrictions were intended to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers. However, associations had complained about the short notice and the lack of transparency on the part of the company. Codacons pointed out that in other European countries the limit is 2 or 3 bags per person, with no indication of dimensions. These rules had sparked much controversy, in particular the rule according to which business class passengers could have larger suitcases than those in standard class.
Furthermore, the National Consumers Union had stressed that safety should not be possible only through the payment of a supplement. Those who brought luggage larger than permitted would be fined 50 euros and would have to collect their luggage at the first possible station. The introduction of another contested regulation would have required folding bicycles and scooters to be placed in a dedicated bag and stored in the luggage spaces, not between the seats. This rule, introduced with the aim of ensuring safety and comfort, had been criticized by associations because it hindered train-bike intermodality, considered essential to reduce urban traffic.
Consumer representatives expressed satisfaction with Wednesday's meeting. Adoc President Anna Rea said the dialogue had been constructive and that some answers to their concerns had been provided, with the aim of ensuring passenger safety. She added that information would be provided to all travellers when the new rules come into force. Trenitalia also intends to introduce new trains with larger luggage racks. Regarding the transport of scooters and bicycles, they appreciated the company's decision to focus on the use of bags.
However, consumer representatives reiterated their opposition to differentiating baggage rules based on class of service, as they believe that the issue of safety should not depend on the class of ticket. They also suggested that baggage checks should be carried out before boarding, to avoid inconvenience to passengers. Overall, the discussions are expected to have a positive outcome for all parties involved, in compliance with the existing protocol between consumer associations and the state railways. This should also serve as preparation for addressing the issue of safety on regional and intercity trains.
Article published on March 8, 2024 - 18pm
