By Budget airline Ryanair has intensified its enforcement of baggage allowance rules, warning British holidaymakers and other passengers that they may face steep fines or even be denied boarding if they fail to comply with strict luggage restrictions. This move comes as the airline deploys more staff, dubbed ‘baggage-sizers’, at boarding gates across its network.
Ryanair’s current policy allows all passengers to bring one small personal bag on board at no extra cost, which must fit under the seat in front. This could be a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack. Passengers wishing to bring a larger cabin bag (up to 55x40x20cm and weighing up to 10kg) must pay an additional fee.
The airline’s spokesperson emphasized the stricter enforcement, stating, “If your small bag or 10kg cabin bag does not fit in the baggage sizers, which are placed at every boarding gate, we will tag your bag and place it in the aircraft hold subject to payment of a gate bag fee.” This fee, often referred to as the ‘gate bag fee’, can amount to £75 (approximately $95 USD).
The crackdown has already affected some high-profile passengers. Irish Superbike champion Jack Kennedy found himself facing the £75 charge when attempting to bring his oversized trophy onboard a flight from the UK to Ireland. Kennedy expressed his frustration on social media, calling the situation “an absolute joke.”
This stringent approach by Ryanair comes amid broader discussions about standardizing baggage allowances across European airlines. The European Parliament has proposed a rule that would allow travelers to take two pieces of hand luggage on board without incurring additional charges. However, implementation of such a rule faces opposition from budget airlines, which derive significant revenue from baggage fees.
Ryanair founder Michael O’Leary has been vocal in his opposition to standardized baggage rules. Speaking to The Independent’s daily travel podcast, O’Leary argued, “There isn’t space on board the aircraft for any more bags,” insisting that officials in Brussels must “accept that there will have to be restrictions.”
Travel expert Simon Calder has dispelled recent rumors suggesting that the EU was set to implement new standardized baggage rules across all airlines from September 1st. Calder clarified that while discussions are ongoing, no immediate changes are forthcoming.
The airline industry’s approach to baggage allowances remains a contentious issue. While budget airlines like Ryanair argue that their low base fares justify additional charges for larger bags, critics argue that these policies can be confusing and costly for passengers.
Ryanair’s stricter enforcement policy highlights the ongoing tension between airlines’ operational needs and passenger expectations. As travelers increasingly rely on budget carriers for both leisure and business travel, understanding and complying with these baggage restrictions becomes crucial to avoid unexpected fees or travel disruptions.
Passengers planning to fly with Ryanair are strongly advised to carefully review the airline’s baggage policy before traveling and to consider purchasing additional baggage allowance in advance if needed, as fees at the gate are significantly higher.
