A former Ryanair cabin crew member has issued a crucial safety warning for travellers, highlighting one item that should never be packed in checked baggage under any circumstances. Eleanor, who worked for the low-cost airline based in Marseille, France, accumulated extensive experience flying globally and now shares insider knowledge from her time in the skies.
The Critical Laptop Warning
In an interview with the Irish Mirror, Eleanor explained the significant risk associated with packing laptops or computers in hold luggage. "I can say you're not supposed to have any laptops or computers in the checked bag because an overheated battery could cause a fire - and if the source is not in the cabin there won't be any way to stop it," she stated. This warning stems from the potential for lithium-ion batteries to overheat and ignite, creating a dangerous situation that crew cannot address if the device is stored in the cargo hold.
Ryanair's Official Stance and Requirements
While Ryanair does not explicitly prohibit laptops in checked luggage, the airline strongly advises passengers to carry them in the cabin whenever possible for enhanced safety. However, if electronic devices must travel in the hold, Ryanair enforces four strict requirements as per their terms and conditions:
- The device must be completely switched off and protected from accidental activation.
- All apps, alarms, or settings that could turn on the device must be disabled or deactivated before packing.
- The device requires adequate protection against damage, either through a protective case or sufficient cushioning within a sturdy bag.
- It must not be packed alongside any flammable substances, such as perfume or aerosols.
Seats to Avoid for a Comfortable Journey
Beyond luggage safety, Eleanor also shared valuable insights on seating choices that can make or break a flight experience. Drawing from her extensive cabin crew background, she identified specific seats passengers might want to steer clear of when booking.
The Notorious Windowless Window Seat
"I can only say to avoid 11A. That's supposed to be a window seat - but it doesn't have a window! You won't be able to see outside," Eleanor revealed. This seat, previously dubbed "Europe's most hated," disappoints travellers expecting a view due to its misleading designation.
The Uncomfortable Exit Row
She also cautioned against row 32 on Ryanair's Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, which are only operated from some bases. "That has emergency exits at the wings, and a crew seat near them that faces the passengers," Eleanor explained. "So, if you sit in that row, you'll have the flight attendant stare at you during take off and landing, and you'll have to move every time they have to pass. It was very uncomfortable as a flight attendant, I imagine it is as a passenger also."
Eleanor, originally from Italy and now residing in New Zealand, has transitioned to content creation, sharing her aviation experiences on YouTube. Her advice combines practical safety measures with comfort tips, offering travellers a comprehensive guide to navigating flights more smoothly and securely. By heeding these recommendations, passengers can mitigate risks and enhance their overall journey, whether dealing with electronic devices or selecting the ideal seat.
