Wizz Air is investigating multiple reports of 'overly strict' enforcement of hand luggage policies at certain Spanish airports after a British traveller was charged €75 (£64.69) for a cabin bag that appeared to fit the sizer. The airline has also clarified that there is no 'one jacket per person' policy after staff at Alicante airport told passenger Mia Peltier she was wearing too many layers.
Incident at Alicante Airport
Mia Peltier, who posts on TikTok as @mileswithmia, shared a video showing airport staff attempting to charge her for her carry-on bag despite it fitting the baggage sizer. In the clip, which has garnered 5.8 million views, Peltier repeatedly says, 'How does that not fit? It fits!' Staff then claimed she was wearing too many clothes and told her, 'It's only one jacket per person.' Spanish-speaking commenters alleged the workers said, 'We haven't been able to charge anyone, we need to charge her.'
Fortunately, another staff member intervened and Peltier did not have to pay. The incident delayed the flight by 30 minutes, she said.
Wizz Air's Response
Wizz Air told Metro: 'We are aware of reports regarding overly strict baggage checks at some Spanish airports. The airline is investigating the matter and has already consulted with its ground handling partner regarding the correct procedures.' The airline also apologised to passengers incorrectly charged, stating: 'Wizz Air apologises to passengers who are incorrectly charged for baggage.'
Unlike budget rivals Ryanair and EasyJet, Wizz Air confirmed that its employees do not receive commission for identifying oversized hand luggage. However, the airline explained that baggage checks are conducted by local ground handling partners who are entitled to charge extra handling fees for oversized cabin bags. 'These fees are clearly displayed at the airport and explained to any passengers who are charged,' a spokesperson said.
No 'Jacket Policy' Exists
Wizz Air explicitly denied the existence of a 'jacket policy.' The spokesperson added: 'There are no restrictions on the number of layers of clothing that a passenger may wear when boarding.' The airline reiterated that a customer should only be charged if any part of their bag extends beyond the dimensions of the sizer.
Public Reaction
Social media users expressed outrage, with comments calling the incident 'wicked' and 'a mockery.' One user wrote, 'I'm so happy you didn't back down despite stress because the bag fits,' while another asked, 'It's only one jacket per person – where is that written?'
Wizz Air encourages passengers who believe they were incorrectly charged to submit a refund claim via the website or mobile app, using the baggage check-in receipt and a photograph where possible.
