Airline staff paid bonuses for spotting oversized carry-on bags

EasyJet allows passengers one small bag on board for free if it fits under the seat in front of them, with maximum dimensions of 45 x 36 x 20 cm. Larger cabin bags can be added for a fee starting at $8.14 (£5.99), depending on the route. Unbooked oversized cabin bags incur a charge of $65.25 (£48) if checked at the gate.

The airline clarified in a statement to The Guardian that different ground handling agents manage staff remuneration directly without its oversight and emphasized ensuring fair application of policies for all customers.

Similar practices occur elsewhere; DHL Supply Chain pays bonuses to its ground handlers who flag non-compliant luggage at London Gatwick, Bristol, and Manchester airports on certain flights. Although exact figures weren't disclosed, they were described as nominal amounts.

Airlines typically provide sizing boxes at boarding gates for passengers to check their luggage dimensions against stated limits; non-compliance often results in charges—a source of frequent passenger complaints.

Legal disputes have arisen over baggage practices among several carriers including easyJet. In 2024, Spain’s Consumer Rights Ministry fined five low-cost airlines nearly $203 million (£150 million) over what it termed abusive policies related to cabin bags and seat selection involving children—easyJet's share was approximately $33 million (£24 million).

On another front, European legislative efforts seek standardization of free cabin bag rights across all carriers operating within the EU. A proposal backed by the European Parliament’s transport committee would allow travelers an additional piece of hand luggage without extra charges—a measure still requiring approval from 55% of EU member states before implementation.

If adopted, this rule would apply universally within EU flights and routes between EU/non-member countries—compelling budget airlines like easyJet to adjust their current fee-based models.