Travellers warned of confusion at airports
Jan 7 2008 by Paul James, The Journal
AIR passengers have been warned to expect confusion from today as new hand luggage rules come into force at some UK airports.
Since a tightening of security in August 2006, passengers at UK airports have been restricted to one piece of hand luggage.
But from today the one-bag rule will be lifted at 22 airports, including Newcastle, Heathrow and Stansted – though not Durham Tees Valley.
The one-bag regulation will remain in place at the airports which have not met measures set by the Government proving they can cope with an easing of the restriction.
To add to difficulties for passengers, the one-bag rule is not being lifted by airlines including easyJet and Ryanair, which between them operate 20 routes from Newcastle.
Yesterday Simon Evans, chief executive of the Air Transport Users’ Council, said: “We have told the Government that there is potential for confusion.
“Since August 2006, we have all been urging people to become acquainted with the one-bag rule and to read the Department for Transport advice. Now the message has changed and there is no longer one consistent message.”
Low-cost carriers easyJet and Ryanair are so worried about the new arrangement that they have decided to retain the one-bag rule for all flights, regardless of which airport its passengers fly from.
EasyJet’s chief executive Andy Harrison said: “There is massive scope for customer confusion in an environment where UK airports are adopting different policies. The only way to maintain a simple and standard policy is to maintain our one-bag policy.”
Neil Pakey, deputy chairman of the Airport Operators’ Association, said: “Airport operators are dedicated to ensuring that passenger flying experience is as smooth as possible. However, different rules for different airlines and airports means that it is essential passengers check the situation before they fly.
“Other restrictions, such as the carrying-on of liquids, remain in force. I would urge passengers to check ahead and plan ahead.
“If in doubt, passengers should make sure that they only take on board items of baggage needed in the aircraft cabin.”
Durham Tees Valley said it was working with the Department for Transport on the measures required to bring in the new arrangements.
Managing director Hugh Lang said: “The Government has indicated that it would like to achieve a move to the new rules at all airports by the end of the May but it is important to stress that the final decision on luggage allowances – including hand luggage – rests with each individual airline.
“At this stage, the position at Durham Tees Valley remains that the limit of one item of hand luggage per person will remain in force on all flights. If and when changes can be brought into effect we will, of course, ensure that passengers are fully informed.”
