EasyJet Baggage Cash Bonus Scheme Sparks Controversy

A leaked email has revealed that a baggage cash bonus scheme may be introduced across all budget airlines, including Ryanair and Jet2, following an EasyJet initiative that pays staff £1.20 per gate bag. The scheme, aptly named "easyJet gate bag revenue incentive," rewards Swissport staff at seven UK airports for taking gate bags from passengers whose hand luggage does not meet the airline's size requirements. According to head of digital & engagement at Eurochange, Laura Evans-Fisk, passengers will face increased scrutiny of their carry-on bags, and similar schemes are likely to be introduced across the budget airline sector.

Key Takeaways:

• The EasyJet baggage cash bonus scheme pays staff £1.20 per gate bag taken after a customer's hand luggage is stored in the hold due to size restrictions.
• The scheme rewards Swissport staff at seven UK airports, including Birmingham, Glasgow, Jersey, and Newcastle.
• Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital & engagement at Eurochange, warns that similar schemes may be introduced across budget airlines, such as Ryanair and Jet2.
• Passengers are advised to carefully measure and pack their bags, consider vacuum-packing clothes, and buy toiletries upon arrival to maximize luggage space.
• Those who believe they're being unfairly charged should escalate their case immediately and avoid paying fees if they're within the size limit.
• Reading up on baggage measurements and purchasing the correct baggage limit based on bag size is crucial to avoid extra charges.

Statistics:

• £1.20: The amount paid to staff for each gate bag taken under the EasyJet scheme.
• £48: The additional fee charged to customers for re-allocation of hand luggage stored in the hold.
• 7: The number of UK airports participating in the EasyJet scheme.
• Multiple airlines: Swissport operates for various airlines at multiple airports, suggesting comparable schemes may be introduced.

Sources:

• Byline: A leaked email sent to staff at seven airports in the UK and the Channel Islands.
• Eurochange: A financial services company providing expert advice.
• ChronicleLive: A local newspaper covering the cost of living crisis in the region.
• Manchester Evening News: A regional newspaper providing news and updates.