skip to main content

EasyJet’s New Baggage Policy Continues to be a Bitter Blow to Musicians

Despite our correspondence with airline EasyJet, we have been unable to persuade them to amend their new baggage policy, which will come into play from 10 February 2021.

Photo ofDave Webster
By Dave Webster Published: 08 February 2021 | 5:42 PM Updated: 09 June 2021 | 11:02 AM
Photograph of an airplace from inside, facing the front of the plane the image looks up the aisle between seats, we can see the backs of peoples arms as heads.
The change is a bitter blow for musicians - who are being hit from all sides. Photo credit: Shutterstock

Further to the news item we released in December 2020, the MU has been unable to persuade EasyJet to amend its new baggage policy or grant a variation for musical instruments.

EasyJet have told the MU that, “All instruments must be able to fit in a cabin bag maximum size 45 x 36 x 20. Which can fit under a seat. Musical Instruments that are larger than your cabin bag, up to size of a cello, can travel in the cabin if a separate ticket is purchased for them. Seats bought for musical instruments do not come with any cabin bag allowance”.

There was no recognition by EasyJet of musical instruments being allowed to go into overhead lockers. Also, it’s clear from the baggage policy that if you purchase an Up-front or Extra legroom seat you can have an additional bag (56 x 45 x 25) and that must fit in an overhead locker.

The information from EasyJet on their musical instrument policy can be found on their website. You can also read EasyJet’s full cabin baggage policy on their website.

This is a bitter blow for musicians - who are being hit from all sides. Musician Annika francke has started a petition on change.org against EasyJet’s change, and we urge you to sign and share it.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

13 members of the Board gathered in front of some stairs.

MU Joins Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board

The MU has joined the new Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board alongside artists, venues, labels, media professionals, academics and industry experts. The Board will help shape the future of the region’s music sector and support long-term growth across the local music ecosystem.

Published: 11 May 2026

Read more about MU Joins Newcastle Gateshead Music City Strategic Board
The panellists sat on the stage with microphones, in front of a screen with saying

MU Panel Explores Rates, Rights and Royalties at Sound City 2026

At Liverpool Sound City Conference 2026, the MU brought together industry professionals and working musicians for its ‘Money in the Mix’ panel to demystify these issues and offer practical insights into building a sustainable career in session work.

Published: 11 May 2026

Read more about MU Panel Explores Rates, Rights and Royalties at Sound City 2026
Chapman sat in front of a piano, talking to Claudia Winkleman on set for Channel Four’s show The Piano.

Why So Few Disabled Professional Musicians: The Barriers Built Into UK Music Education

Why are disabled musicians still so rarely seen in the UK’s conservatoires, orchestras and freelance workforce? For Chun, the parent of accomplished young MU member Chapman, the answer lies not in a lack of talent, but in post-16 structures that continue to close doors on disabled progression.

Published: 08 May 2026

Read more about Why So Few Disabled Professional Musicians: The Barriers Built Into UK Music Education
Marcelo and another busker in yellow M U campaign t-shirts holding pink cut out guitars at a demo last August.

Protecting Amplification in Busking

One year on from the Leicester Square busking ban, MU member Marcelo Cervone reflects on how amplification shapes public space, challenges misconceptions on busking volume and makes the case for protecting performers’ pitches.

Published: 08 May 2026

Read more about Protecting Amplification in Busking