EasyJet, the low cost airline with the most generous luggage allowance, is to begin charging all passengers who check in bags ”2 (”3) per flight sector, up to the maximum total hold baggage weight of 20kg per person.
This replaces the previous policy where the first hold bag was free but subsequent bags were charged at ”5 per item.
All new bookings for travel from 1 October 2007 onwards will be subject to the fee.
Unlike its fierce competitor Ryanair, easyJet passengers will still be able to take advantage of one of Europe”s most generous hand baggage allowances ” with a free carry-on bag policy of up to 22x18x10in (55x40x20cm) with no weight restriction.
The airline says it is seeking to reduce the number of passengers who travel with checked-in bags by rewarding those who choose to pack smarter and travel lighter.
Wizz Air likewise was charging only for additional pieces but will now add a fee of ”2.50 per bag at the time of the initial booking or ”5 per bag if paid later. The policy change is effective for travel from 27 October unless already booked. Wizz will continue to charge ”6 for each kg over the 20kg allowance.
"We are pursuing our philosophy of charging the passengers according to their needs and we are using this change to keep our airfares down," said Wizz Air.