I have recently traveled to Europe from Canada and back, and I have also used four different low-cost airlines in Europe. I watched passengers embarking on airplanes. And I saw a bit disturbing scenes at eight different airports and in planes: People seem to bring half of their household to a 3-week vacation.
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Few budget carriers are strict in terms of the size and weight of baggage you can bring to the cabin. Others, such as EasyJet randomly (in my opinion) pick on passengers who have carry-on luggage, while they are not caring about those who use huge backpacks - no matter how bulky and heavy these are. Other airline personnel don't even blink an eye, even if one has several pieces of hand lugggage with them ... It seems that passengers can trust their luck of being caught or not.
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Weight & Balance
I am sure that some of these overhead baggage pieces are heavier than checked-in suitcases for which passengers have to fork out more and more dollars. But it is not only the weight and size of these pieces that should fit under the passenger's seat: It is also the time that is wasted. Flight delays are programmed as the pilots cannot move the airplane until everyone is seated.
I am sure that some of these overhead baggage pieces are heavier than checked-in suitcases for which passengers have to fork out more and more dollars. But it is not only the weight and size of these pieces that should fit under the passenger's seat: It is also the time that is wasted. Flight delays are programmed as the pilots cannot move the airplane until everyone is seated.
I watched people, storming into the plane, putting their carry-on into one of the first overhead bins, and then walking to their seats at row 26 or further down the aisle. Others fumble forever several pieces up in the overhead, while everyone else has to wait for them to take their seats. During winter time or the holidays it's even worse, when coats and Christmas gifts have to fit into the overhead bin.
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Reduce the Amount of Luggage
Traveling for three months I take only a 10 by 16 inch bag that fits well underneath the seat. I can find laundry services everywhere I go, and in some countries, such as Mecico or Argentina they are dirt cheap. To wash underwear I use the hotels' bathroom sink and a bit of the shampoo they provide. If all fails, I can purchase something cheaply. When traveling I don't care much about fashion. Looking for a cultural experience or beautiful landscapes doesn't require showing off the latest style.
Charge for Each Piece of Cabin Luggage
The aircraft's fuel consumption is related to the weight of passengers and luggage. As heavier the airplane is, as more fuel they need. Readers might not like my opinion - but it would be more than fair to weigh every piece that goes into the airplane (including the passenger) and then charge a fee. Passengers who carry heavy luggage pay more than those who travel light. Compare it with your car: More weight means more gas and maybe even more insurance and taxes. Why should flying be different?
Here is more about this topic:
https://www.cbc.ca/radio/costofliving/carry-on-baggage-carried-away-1.7035013
Happy Lightweight Flying
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