UK Airline Criticized for Misleading Baggage Claims
EasyJet has faced criticism from the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) regarding its advertising practices for large cabin bags. The ASA ruled that the airline’s claim of adding such bags costing “from £5.99” was misleading and lacked valid evidence.
Misleading Baggage Claims by EasyJet
The ASA determined that EasyJet’s advertised price was not consistently available across different flight routes and dates. As a result, they have prohibited the airline from using the misleading phrase in any marketing communications.
Investigation Findings
A consumer group, Which?, conducted an investigation that revealed the prices for adding large cabin bags were higher than the advertised £5.99 on all 520 analyzed flights. The lowest actual price found was £23.49, with the average cost reaching £30.
- Lowest Price Found: £23.49
- Average Price: £30
- Flights Analyzed: 520
Regulator’s Ruling and Airline’s Response
Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, expressed concern over airlines using low headline fares, only to charge significantly higher fees for basic services like cabin bags. He stated, “It’s absolutely right that the ASA has made this ruling against EasyJet.” He emphasized the need for consumers to consider airlines that do not have additional charges for cabin bags, as they may offer more economical options.
In response to the ASA’s findings, EasyJet acknowledged the variation in prices due to operational costs and demand, but maintained that they strive for transparency. The airline emphasized its commitment to providing clear pricing information and has indicated they will make necessary adjustments to comply with the ASA’s recommendations.
