NEW hand luggage restrictions on airline passengers are likely to become permanent.
Government ministers have told BAA they do not expect fundamental changes to the regime brought in following last week’s terror alert.
Carry-on bags must be half the size of hand luggage previously allowable, and most toiletries will no longer be allowed through security.
Airlines and tour operators generally welcomed the new regime that marked a relaxation of the severe restrictions in place during the security alert.
But Ryanair labelled them “nonsensical” and chief executive Michael O’Leary called on the Government “to return air travel to normal”.
A Ryanair spokesman confirmed the carrier would continue charging £5 for each item of hold luggage.
The change could hit the no-frills business model said First Choice marketing director Tim Williamson. “It will be difficult to load passengers quickly and putting most luggage in the hold will slow turnarounds,” he said.
Thomsonfly managing director Colin Mitchell added: “The baggage changes won’t affect us, but will mean a change in customer behaviour.”
Checking in is not expected to take much longer once passengers are aware of the changes, although airlines may need more check-in staff – stalling the trend towards automated and online check-in.
These services are liable to remain, but passengers will still need to go through security and identity checks in person.
The days of taking several items of hand luggage on board a flight, or a bag large enough for a long weekend, are probably over.
Short-stay clients should expect to spend more time at airports to check in and collect bags.
The authorities have said to expect the one, small item rule to be strictly enforced, so business travellers will have to do without their laptop, briefcase and suit carrier as additional hand luggage.