Ryanair's outspoken CEO, Michael O'Leary, has announced a new initiative to tackle the persistent issue of oversized cabin baggage. The airline boss revealed that staff will now receive financial incentives for enforcing strict baggage policies, a move designed to speed up boarding and reduce delays.
Why the Crackdown?
O'Leary explained that oversized bags are a major contributor to flight delays, as passengers often try to avoid checked luggage fees by squeezing large items into overhead bins. This not only slows down boarding but also causes disputes among travellers.
How the Bonus Scheme Works
The incentive programme will reward ground staff and cabin crew who successfully identify and charge passengers for non-compliant baggage. While exact figures weren't disclosed, O'Leary confirmed the bonuses would be 'generous enough to make a difference'.
Passenger Reactions Mixed
While some frequent flyers welcome the stricter enforcement, others argue the policy unfairly targets budget-conscious travellers. Ryanair maintains that clear size restrictions have always been in place, and the new measures simply ensure consistent application of existing rules.
Industry-Wide Impact
This move comes as airlines globally seek ways to improve operational efficiency. If successful, other budget carriers may follow Ryanair's lead in implementing similar staff incentive programmes for baggage enforcement.
