Ryanair has sparked debate with its latest staff incentive scheme, offering bonuses to employees who prevent passengers from boarding with oversized cabin bags. The move aims to enforce stricter baggage policies but has raised concerns over potential conflicts at the gate.
How the Bonus Scheme Works
Under the new system, Ryanair staff will receive financial rewards for each passenger they stop from carrying non-compliant luggage onto the aircraft. The airline claims this will speed up boarding and reduce delays caused by last-minute bag checks.
Passenger Reactions Mixed
While some travellers welcome the crackdown on those flouting baggage rules, others fear it could lead to overzealous enforcement and unnecessary confrontations. Social media has seen heated discussions, with some calling it a 'money-making scheme' disguised as policy enforcement.
Ryanair's Defence
The budget airline maintains that the policy benefits all passengers by ensuring sufficient overhead locker space and preventing boarding delays. A spokesperson stated: 'This initiative simply rewards staff for applying our clearly published baggage rules which 99% of customers comply with.'
What Counts as Oversized?
Ryanair's cabin baggage policy allows one small bag (40x20x25cm) that must fit under the seat, plus an optional 10kg checked bag (55x40x20cm) for a fee. Any items exceeding these dimensions may be refused at the gate with a €25-€30 charge.
Travel Expert Advice
Industry analysts suggest passengers carefully measure their bags before travel and consider pre-paying for checked luggage to avoid unexpected fees. They also recommend arriving early if you need to resolve any baggage issues before boarding.
