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

An orchestra rehearsal with young people playing various instruments, two have adaptive instruments.

MU Marks Disability History Month 2025

Celebrate UK Disability History Month 2025 with this curated round-up of news and resources for disabled musicians and anyone seeking to strengthen their knowledge and allyship. Discover funding tips, networking opportunities, MU support and more.

Published: 05 December 2025

Read more about MU Marks Disability History Month 2025
Sticky note with human head and green cross icon, representing health and wellness.

Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work

A life in the arts often brings physical or psychological challenges, but BAPAM can offer vital support. Trustee and MU National Organiser for Education, Health and Wellbeing Chris Walters explains why the Union is proud to champion its work and how its services can benefit members.

Published: 04 December 2025

Read more about Life Support: How BAPAM Supports Artists and Why the MU Proudly Backs its Work
Flags of the United Kingdom and the European Union next to each other.

Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth

A new UK–EU Cultural Exchange Coalition has launched today, uniting the MU and major creative organisations to push for removing post-Brexit touring barriers. The alliance seeks to turn political promises on cultural exchange into action supporting artists and renewing collaboration.

Published: 03 December 2025

Read more about Organisations from Across UK and Europe Join Forces to Remove Barriers to Touring and Drive Growth
An aerial view of Derry in Northern Ireland.

MU to Attend NW Music Makers Forum in Derry

Members are invited to join the MU in attending the NW Music Makers Forum in Derry to discuss collaborative support for the live music sector. Taking place on Friday 12 December 2025.

Published: 02 December 2025

Read more about MU to Attend NW Music Makers Forum in Derry