Ryanair Faces Accusations of Secretly Reducing Hand Luggage Size
Budget airline Ryanair is under scrutiny amid claims from former passengers that the airline has been quietly diminishing its hand luggage allowances. The airline is set to introduce new rules and procedures, including increased fees for larger cabin bags. Allegations have surfaced suggesting that Ryanair has downsized the metal frames used to measure carry-on baggage at boarding gates, resulting in potential penalties of up to £60 for oversized bags. However, the airline’s head of marketing, Jade Kirwan, has refuted these claims, stating that there has been no change in luggage rules over the past decade. Kirwan addressed the situation, suggesting that passengers may have previously bypassed strict checks and are now being subject to closer scrutiny. She advised travellers to observe the luggage sizers closely, hinting that wear and tear may have altered their appearance over time.
Ryanair’s current policy permits passengers to bring a free cabin bag as long as it fits dimensions of 40x20x25cm and can be stowed under the seat in front. Additional charges apply for larger cabin bags or checked-in suitcases weighing up to 10kg. The airline has also introduced new fees for oversized cabin bags at the gates, varying from £6 to £60 depending on the circumstances. Opting for Priority at booking, which includes a 10kg case, incurs an added cost, while gate fees can escalate significantly. Furthermore, passengers dropping off their bags at designated desks will face a charge of £35.99 for a 10kg suitcase.
Ryanair CEO, Michael O’Leary, has disclosed plans for a digital transformation within the airline. By next spring, all boarding procedures are expected to be conducted online or via an app, eliminating traditional ticket desks. O’Leary emphasised the airline’s shift towards paperless operations, stating that all processes will be digitalised moving forward.
As Ryanair navigates through these changes, passengers are advised to stay informed about updated baggage rules and fees to avoid any unexpected charges while travelling with the budget carrier.