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

Naomi sat on stage with Allistair Elliott (Canada) and Juho Viljanen (Finland) during the panel event.

MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026

MU General Secretary Naomi Pohl opened the FIM International Freelance Conference in Brighton, hosted by the Musicians' Union, welcoming delegates from around the world and highlighting the opportunities and challenges facing freelance musicians today.

Published: 23 October 2026

Read more about MU General Secretary Opens FIM International Freelance Conference 2026
The five panellists sat on stage, in purple lighting, with FIM logo behind them.

International Delegates Gather for Day One of FIM Freelance Conference

Delegates at FIM's International Freelance Conference explored collective bargaining, organising freelance musicians and tackling discrimination, sharing international perspectives on improving working conditions and building a fairer, more inclusive music industry.

Published: 23 October 2026

Read more about International Delegates Gather for Day One of FIM Freelance Conference
Person playing acoustic guitar next to a small baby who is smiling.

MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months

The MU Executive Committee has agreed to extend the application period for the parental grant from six months to 12 months following the birth or adoption of a child, making it easier for members to access support when they need it.

Published: 22 October 2026

Read more about MU Extends Parental Grant Application Period to 12 Months
Illustration of a yellow lightbulb with a green leaf inside representing ideas, against a turquoise grey background.

Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action

Can music help tackle the climate crisis? Chris Hutchings, composer and MU Climate Emergency Action Group member, explores how songs can inspire action, build community and help people realise they're part of a much wider movement for change.

Published: 19 October 2026

Read more about Writing for Change: How Songs Can Inspire Climate Action