SILLY AMOUNTS OF HAND BAGGAGE ON BOARD

POST TiredOldHack DATE May 26 15:25

That’s two flights delayed this month because people will insist on trying to take great steamer trunks on board. Yesterday, coming back from Amsterdam (AMS) took an age because there simply wasn’t enough space for everyone’s hand luggage and people refuse to put their stuff in the hold. Well guys, the time you thought you saved by not having to wait for baggage reclaim was more than lost by the delay to the flight and the loss of a parking slot at Heathrow T5. I am utterly fed up with this. Looks like flight crews are as well.

MartynSinclair May 26 15:28

I’ve noticed that AMS boarding staff can be quite strict. They make passengers consolidate extra bags and it’s one of the few airports where I see boarding staff use the size machine to check. I still think the best way to solve this problem is to charge for hand luggage and allow a bigger checked allowance – problem will be solved overnight...

ba747fan1 May 26 15:41

I think it’s very useful not to have to put things in the hold (within reason). However, what I disagree with is people who cannot effectively fill the overhead bins by putting things in the wrong way around and blocking masses of space. US domestic flights have lots of hand luggage but people are better at maximising space for all.

GivingupBA May 26 15:46

I understand your frustration. I also can’t believe my eyes when I see the giant bags people lug on board. My answer is – people will stop trying to take silly amounts of hand baggage on board when the airlines, and/or airports, stop people doing it. One possible way would be to place airport/ airline staff at the security entrances with a size measure, and send people back to check-in desks if they have oversized hand luggage.

Canucklad May 26 15:46

On my way back from Faro a couple of weeks ago, the ground handling agents were tagging small bags deemed suitable to be placed under the seat in front of you. When approached, I firmly stated that my little holdall would not be placed under the seat – it would be going into the overhead bins. The staff finally understood my position when I asked why I should be punished legroom-wise for clearly staying within the limits of cabin baggage rules. I sat down and then watched the inevitable game of luggage Tetris unfold in front of me. What amazes me is the amount of people who consider it totally acceptable to treat other people’s property like a car in a demolition derby… infuriating!