A frustrated traveler has accused the airline easyJet of singling him out by insisting that he demonstrate his luggage fitting the sizer four times before being allowed on his flight. Richard Deakin, 37, was departing from London Luton Airport for a short trip to Málaga, Spain with only carry-on luggage on September 28. Despite packing clothes for his stay, he also brought four containers of gravy granules for his friend’s mother.
Richard, feeling irate, was requested to place his bag in the sizer. Although he acknowledged it was a tight fit, he argued that it was suitable. However, the airline staff disagreed. An annoyed Richard asked a fellow passenger to record him reinserting his bag into the sizer to prove his point.
In the video, which was shared on TikTok and received over 106,000 views, Richard is seen persistently pushing his bag into the sizer until it finally fits. Subsequently, he questions the staff about the requirement for the bag to easily fit into the sizer.
Allegedly, Richard was instructed to test his bag twice more in front of managers. Concerned about missing his flight, he removed a book and a battery pack. He believes the airline’s actions were aimed at making money and advises travelers not to pay unnecessary baggage fees if their luggage complies with the size regulations.
While some social media users supported Richard, others criticized him for his behavior towards the staff. Richard, from Halesowen, West Midlands, expressed that he was determined not to pay the fine imposed by the airline. He emphasizes that he measured and weighed his bag beforehand and was confident it met the requirements. Despite the initial struggle, he managed to fit the bag in the sizer after removing some items.
Richard now urges fellow travelers not to fall into the trap of paying extra fees for baggage that meets the guidelines. He believes that many passengers end up paying unnecessarily due to not questioning the authorities. Despite understanding the rules, he finds it frustrating to pay for a bag that complies with the weight restrictions and would fit in the overhead compartment like others’ bags.
Following the incident, some individuals defended Richard’s actions, criticizing easyJet for its handling of the situation. Meanwhile, others condemned Richard for his approach towards the airline’s staff, citing the importance of respectful communication.
Responding to the incident, an easyJet spokesperson clarified the airline’s bag policy, stating that customers are only charged if their bags exceed the size limit. The airline does not tolerate aggressive behavior towards its ground crew. Once Richard successfully fit his bag in the gauge, he was not charged and was allowed to board the plane.