easyJet to slash cabin baggage allowance by half amid Covid-19 turbulence
EasyJet, Britain's biggest budget airline, is halving its cabin baggage allowance for passengers paying cheaper fares.
The controversial move will not allow passengers to pay extra to carry another bag and will be valid on all flights from February 10, 2021.
Under the new rules, all passengers can bring a small bag for free, but only those who pay for a seat in the front of the plane or extra leg room can also bring a larger bag to go in the overhead locker.
The airline says: "This will enable them to bring all the essentials for their journey or enough for a short trip.”
The new limit for hand luggage is 45x36x20cm, compared to the current 56x45x25cm dimensions.
It said: "The limited overhead locker space on aircraft has meant that customers can’t always be certain they will have their cabin bag onboard with them.
“The new policy will also reduce queue times during boarding and other associated delays which occur due to putting excess cabin bags in the hold and so the move will lead to improved punctuality for all customers.”
There are a maximum of 63 upfront and extra legroom seats on each aircraft operated by easyJet.
However, customers who pay more in advance for “upfront" or extra legroom seats will be able to bring a larger bag in addition to the smaller one. Passengers holding easyJet Plus cards, or who pay higher 'flexi' fares will also be allowed two bags.
Those who pay extra for 'flexi' fares will also be entitled to carry an extra piece of hand luggage.
EasyJet also offered discounted coronavirus tests for passengers in a bid to boost demand for air travel.
The Luton-based airline said it has agreed a deal with two private testing firms to offer preferential rates to flyers.
Testing has become a requirement for entry to a number of easyJet’s most popular destinations, such as Germany, Spain and Italy.
From December 15, people arriving in England from high-risk countries will be able to end their quarantine early if they receive a negative test taken at least five days after they land.
EasyJet said customers can buy a home testing kit from Confirm Testing for £75 (retail price £119) or from CityDoc for £100 (retail price £185).
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