An initiative that could lead to a reduction in the size of permitted airline carry-on bags has been put on pause.

Launched by global airline trade body the International Air Transport Association (Iata), the Cabin OK scheme aimed to provide passengers with greater assurance that their carry-on bags would travel with them in the aircraft cabin, even when the flight was full.

The initiative provides consumers with a voluntary option to use a Cabin OK-labelled bag, with optimally sized dimensions of 55x35x20cm or 21.5x13.5x7.5 inches.

This is smaller than the per-mitted limit by many airlines including Air Malta and Ryanair.

Issue is close to heart of travellers

The initiative was launched two weeks ago but met with opposition, prompting Iata to clarify the position by saying the proposed restrictions were not a maximum but an “optimum” size and that airlines would still be allowed to set their own, larger limits. Last week, Iata announced that it was “pausing” the rollout of its initiative and “beginning a comprehensive reassessment in light of concerns expressed, primarily in North America”.

Iata's airport, passenger, cargo and security vice president Tom Windmuller said: “Our focus is on providing travellers with an option that would lead to a simplified and better experience.

“While many welcomed the initiative, significant concerns were expressed in North America.

“This is a voluntary programme for airlines and for consumers.

“This is clearly an issue that is close to the heart of travellers. We need to get it right.”

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