British budget EasyJet has announced changes to its cabin bag policy, reducing the size of free carry-on luggage and charging for overhead lockers.
Under the new policy, passengers can take a small cabin bag measuring a maximum of 45 centimetres by 36 centimetres by 20 centimetres, but it must fit under the seat in front.
According to Metro, passengers could previously bring a small suitcase measuring 56 centimetres by 45 centimetres by 25 centimetres on board for free.
Overhead locker space will now be priced up to $70 for “those who want certainty” in the era of increasingly limited storage room in plane cabins
The airline said the decision will reduce queue times during boarding and other associated delays which occur due to putting excess cabin bags in the hold.
Passengers can also nab access to an overhead locker by booking Extra Legroom seats for $14, depending on the flight.
The changes will come into place from 10 February 2021.
“Punctuality is important to our customers, and we know that if they have their bags placed into the hold at the gate due to the limited space on board, this can cause flight delays, and it can be frustrating for them too,” Robert Carey, chief commercial and customer officer at EasyJet, said.
“Our new policy will improve boarding and punctuality for everyone, as well as give our customers certainty of what they will have with them on board.
“Customers with existing bookings from 10 February will be offered ‘Hands Free’ for free, allowing them to travel with their cabin bag at no extra cost.
“For families, we’ll continue to provide a number of options to allow them to bring additional items free of charge, helping keep travel easy and affordable for families when they fly with us.”
Hands Free allowed customers to bring a large cabin bag to EasyJet Plus Bag Drop and have it delivered at the baggage carousel on arrival for just $14 per bag per flight, or if you’re travelling in a group, it’s just $30 for between three and six bags.
The news came as the low-cost airline appointed Sophie Dekkers as its new chief commercial officer.
Dekkers has been with EasyJet since 2007 in a variety of roles, most recently as customer director. During her time at the airline, she has looked after the commercial performance of the UK market as country director, as well as having performed roles such as director of scheduling and head of business.
Dekkers will be responsible for EasyJet’s network and planning, scheduling, commercial and digital. Her appointment follows the resignation of Robert Carey.
Featured image source: iStock/Serhii Ivashchuk
