Unite, the union which represents airport workers, is calling for the weigh limit on luggage to be dropped from 32 to 23 kg per item.
Over 100 Unite members from airports across the UK will be lobbying their MPs outside Parliament today asking them to take part in a “baggage challenge” where MPs will be invited to lift the heavy cases.
Unite says baggage handlers lift the equivalent of a elephant a day during their shift.
Unite’s lighten up campaign highlights the effect lighter luggage will have on global warming and the union is asking the government to fund a public awareness campaign on the issue.
Unite national officer Steve Turner said: “Baggage handlers are suffering unacceptably high levels of injuries caused by heavy bags. They lift over nine tonnes per shift. We are demanding that the government act to reduce the weight of checked in bags to 23kg which will reduce injuries significantly.”