EasyJet has defended its cabin bag policy after a passenger raised concerns that the rules could disadvantage disabled travellers. The airline stated that the policy is applied equally to all passengers to ensure sufficient onboard space and highlighted that assistance is available at airports.
Passenger's Concerns
A passenger from Surrey, using the pseudonym James, contacted the Daily Star to discuss the issue. His wife Samantha, also a pseudonym, has a common health condition that prevents her from carrying her own bags through the airport or at their holiday destination. James understands the need for luggage size restrictions but claims that a rule counting wheels and handles toward the size limit could leave disabled passengers in difficulty if no accommodation is available.
James argues that his wife requires a suitcase with wheels and a handle to move independently, reducing her usable packing space compared to someone who can carry a bag without those features. He believes the policy places disabled travellers at a disadvantage.
EasyJet's Response
In response to James' concerns, EasyJet reiterated that its cabin bag policy is consistent and fair for all customers. A spokesperson for the airline said: "EasyJet does not discriminate against any customers and like all airlines sets maximum dimensions for cabin bags, ensuring there is space for them onboard, which is consistent and fair for all customers. Should a customer need help with taking their bag to the gate, the assistance team at the airport will provide this support for them."
The airline also noted that passengers can bring two mobility aids, such as a wheelchair and walker, as well as a bag for any medical equipment, in addition to the standard cabin bag allowance, free of charge.
EasyJet's Bag Policy
EasyJet's policy states that each passenger can bring one small under-seat cabin bag for free, with maximum dimensions of 45 x 36 x 20 cm, including handles and wheels. The bag can weigh up to 15 kg, but passengers must be able to lift and carry it themselves. Passengers also have the option to book a large cabin bag (max 56 x 45 x 25 cm) for an additional fee, which includes Speedy Boarding.
Feeling Dismissed
James alleged that when he previously raised his concerns with EasyJet, customer service "batted us off" and the issue "fizzled out." He and his wife have since "engineered a way of coping with bags," but he believes it is unfair that disabled people are subject to the same rules. Despite this, James praised EasyJet's special assistance team as "brilliant" and acknowledged that similar issues may arise with other airlines.
Advice for Travellers
EasyJet recommends using its app's bag sizing tool (available on iOS) to check if cabin bags meet the dimensions. However, the airline advises that the tool should only be used as a guide and that measuring the bag with a tape measure is the most reliable method.
