Ryanair has hit out at claims of “secretly shrinking the sizers” at departure gates saying baggage rules have not changed in ten years.
The budget airline’s policy of charging for larger carry-on items means oversized bags can lead to hefty fines of up to £60 at the departure gate.
It has led to mounting criticism online with many claiming Ryanair had suddenly reduced the size of cabin bags allowed on board, in order to catch people out for that extra surcharge.
More: Ryanair flights to European destinations cut
The airline’s luggage policies permit a small bag which can fit under the seat free of charge.
The policy states: “All our fares include one small personal bag which can be brought on board, such as a handbag or laptop bag (40x20x25cm), which must fit under the seat in front of you. If you need additional baggage allowance, there are various options available to you.”
Passengers can pay up to £30 to bring a larger cabin bag onboard or up to £25 to check in a 10kg bag.
Ryanair head of marketing Jade Kirwan addressed the claims in Cork as the airline launched two new winter routes.
She told CorkBeo: “We haven’t changed the rules on bags, changed the dimensions allowed or shrunk the sizers at departure gates.
“It hasn’t happened, I’ve just checked into this again because we have seen all the chat on social media. The rules have not changed in ten years.”
“What may be happening, is that people that have gotten through a few times before because they were not closely checked have finally gotten that check.
“It’s a system operated by humans so it can differ from flight to flight, airport to airport. But no, we haven’t secretly replaced the bag sizers at the gates.
“Just look at them the next time you fly, they usually look like they’ve gotten a fair bit of use over a long time!”
