31 July 2008

Ryanair considers selected ban on checked luggage

Ryanair is considering a ban on checked-in luggage on selected flights in a bid to cut costs after announcing an 85 per cent fall in profits.

The carrier said a hand-luggage only rule was being considered for some morning and midweek departures which contain a high proportion of business travellers.

A spokesman said that although the airline had a general policy to encourage people to travel with only hand luggage, the rule, if introduced, would be confined to non-tourist routes and flights.

RyanairÃ¢â¬â¢s profits recently slumped to 21 million Euros following the rise in the price of oil. Banning checked in luggage on some flights would save money on airport baggage handlers and reduce the airlineÃ¢â¬â¢s fuel bill because the flights would be lighter.

Ryanair has already said it will temporarily stop flying to seven airports this winter and is attempting to negotiate better deals with the airports it uses.

However, chief executive Michael OÃ¢â¬â¢Leary has claimed the airline is well placed to ride out a recession and even said that he welcomed the downturn, because some rivals would be forced into administration.

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Your Comments (5)

Pounds Lbs = Pounds &#pound;

Mr O'leary should just use the hot air he spouts to reduce reliance on aviation fuel. Pasenger charging by the pound (Lbs) can only be just around the corner. Also - all that space freed up in the hold - bargain seats (no window or aisle)!

By Simon Walton, Monday, August 4, 2008
Choice of other airlines

Ryanair do not rule the roost and agents and customers have plenty of other airlines to book flights with.

By NEIL FARRAR, Monday, August 4, 2008
Ryan again at the forefront

Ryan again thinks outside the box. They turn what most travelers see as a negative into quick turnarounds of the aircraft, no baggage being damaged/lost, less manpower. A win-win for Ryan and the public.

By Bob Nay, Monday, August 4, 2008
Make aircraft Double Deckers

Now Ryanair is leading minimal service once again, maybe O'Leary could introduce a new class of service - Baggage Hold Class. He could put extra seats in the hold - without windows - just like passenger ships offered in the past.

By Jon Hewson, Sunday, August 3, 2008
website problems

maybe ryanair should get its website working properly first - the fact that is is so slow and often down must be costing it a fortune

By andy brewer, Thursday, July 31, 2008