Ryanair changes baggage rules again: new charges and small cases no longer free
Budget airline says changes will make boarding faster but, surprise surprise, it'll mean more charges for many flyers. Here's what's changing.
Ryanair has announced new rules for baggage allowance – and not everyone will be pleased when it takes off.
In an effort to clampdown on those who flout the rules, the budget airline has announced that, from November, passengers will have to pay £6 to take a 10kg bag, such as a pull-along suitcase, on board.
If they want to check this bag into the hold instead, they’ll have to pay up to £10.
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Only smallest bags will escape the charge
You'll still able to take one ‘small personal bag’ with them into the cabin – but only if it will fit under the seat in front, measuring 40 x 20 x 25cm. So that's most likely going to be limited to laptop bags, satchels and handbags.
Furthermore, the policy reveals that only 95 passengers per flight – which amount to about half of the total capacity – will be permitted to purchase the cabin bag privilege.
Ryanair denies the policy has been introduced to squeeze passengers out of more money.
Instead, it says the change is intended to “speed up boarding” by aiming to “improve punctuality and reduce boarding gate delays”.
Earlier this year, the airline reduced the costs for checking-in luggage for these exact same reasons, but the ploy appears to have have been unsuccessful.
Btw @Ryanair how much ££ do you charge your passengers to breathe on the plane??
— cameron galindo (@cameron_galindo) August 28, 2018
Under the new scheme, passengers instead have no option but to travel very lightly, check-in a medium-sized bag for £8-£10 or store a larger suitcase costing £25.
Other budget airlines - such as Easyjet, Wizz and Norwegian – allow one piece of small hand luggage aboard.
Hey @Ryanair! I am really sorry. Although a frequent flyer with you, we keep having charges for nothing and no rewards. With this new bag policy, I guess @easyJet will be more than happy to have (not just) a new flyer. With all the charges, it's going to be cheaper anyway.
— Gabriele Maffoni (@GabrieleMaffoni) August 28, 2018
The company, who are no strangers to bad press, have faced a barrage of scrutiny for their decision, with many passengers threatening to abandon their service in favour of competitors who don’t charge hidden fees - and who may be a bit more reliable!
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