easyJet Review: Reliability, Comfort, Price & Passengers Experience
As Europe’s leading short-haul airline, EasyJet has been delighting passengers for more than 25 years with their reliable and comfortable flights. Plus, they provide great value options to get you from one destination to another quickly and easily.
So, for this review, we’ve scoured multiple platforms, taking into account the experiences of over 80,000 EasyJet passengers to give you the most comprehensive insights. As you’ll see, the reviews cover a range of factors, from reliability and in-flight services, to the comfort of seating and the friendliness of the staff.
Read on to get a full account of what it’s like to fly EastJet.
Key findings:
- Europe’s leading short-haul airline with modern aircraft fleet
- Takes 5th place in AirAdvisors best UK airlines ranking 2023
- Comfortable, easy booking and check-in process
- The first airline to support Airbus’ ZEROe programme
- Professional on-board service and well-trained crew
- Efficient mobile app
easyJet Rating by Passenger Reviews
Our team scoured the sources and gathered information from popular review websites like Tripadvisor, Trustpilot, and Google reviews. So, let’s dive into the ratings that reveal the pros and cons of flying with EasyJet.
The Pros of Flying with EasyJet
Starting with the good news first, EasyJet appears to be favourably regarded as an airline that offers:
- Low-cost flights
- Quick check-in process
- Good on-board service
- Professional and welcoming crew
- Cleanliness in the cabin
- EasyJet Holidays - a program that offers more for each interest and budget
The Cons of Flying with EasyJet
On the other hand, EasyJet had unfavourable reviews especially when it came to:
- Delays or cancellations and difficulty with refunds
- Additional baggage fees
- Lost baggage
- Unsatisfying customer service
- Not allowing travel with pets
- Not offering entertainment screens
Ticket Purchasing and Check-In
EasyJet provides several ways for you to book flights and check-in:
- The EasyJet Website
- Mobile app
- Phone
- In-Person at the airport
Booking on the web-site is intuitive and easy - in a few simple steps you can pick a flight, compare prices for different days and choose the lowest fare, select your seat, add baggage and travel insurance and even hire a car or purchase food and drink vouchers.
With the ability to make a standard booking for up to 40 passengers, it's perfect for group travel. The benefit of the Group Booking by easyJet is that the airline will block your seats together and that you can add names of the passengers later.
This airline also offers two fare options - standard and FLEXI that allows you to choose what works best for your budget and travel needs.
Lastly, their check-in window of 30 days to 2 hours before departure gives you peace of mind, knowing you have plenty of time to prepare for your flight.
Official App Ratings
EasyJet has revolutionized the way you travel with their innovative mobile app. The app offers a passport scanning feature that allows you to seamlessly upload your passport information with just a few taps on your smartphone and a flight tracker that helps you stay up-to-date with any changes or delays. You can now save time by having your boarding pass directly on your phone with their mobile boarding pass feature.
Destinations and coverage
EasyJet is the go-to airline for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore. With over 30 countries and 100 cities in their coverage, they offer a broad range of destinations for both leisure and business travelers. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a longer trip, this airline has you covered. From the stunning beaches of the Mediterranean coast to the beautiful architecture of Eastern Europe, there is something for everyone with EasyJet.
easyJet On-time Performance
According to the latest Eurocontrol study, EasyJet has achieved some amazing statistics in terms of on-time performance. In 2022, despite operating close to 1,335 average daily flights, this airline has maintained a steady arrival punctuality rate of 70%. And even though departure punctuality averaged slightly lower at 63%, the airline managed to keep departure delays within an average of 21 minutes. EasyJet also maintained an average arrival delay of just 17 minutes for its 49,606 flights in 2023.
Actual Fleet and eco-policy
EasyJet plc. is making strides towards a greener future with its actual fleet and eco-policy. With a total fleet of 333 Airbus family aircraft, EasyJet's average fleet age is 10.7 years. However, the airline is continuously upgrading its fleet with newer and more efficient Airbus NEO aircraft. These aircraft are at least 15% more fuel-efficient and 50% quieter than the aircraft they replace.
But the company's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint doesn't end there. EasyJet is the first airline to support Airbus’ ZEROe programme to develop the world’s first zero-emission commercial aircraft. This, coupled with their support for carbon removal technology that will play a vital role in achieving net-zero targets, puts EasyJet at the forefront of the aviation industry's environmental efforts. Their current goal is to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Airport Experience
Not surprisingly, airport experience can vary greatly depending on which airport you're traveling from. For a stress-free journey, it's recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international ones.
Luckily, easyJet has introduced fully automated bag drop machines in most airports to help reduce and eliminate check-in queues. This means that more than 90% of their passengers will now wait less than 5 minutes at bag drop. They also have dedicated bag drop desks and fast track security for easyJet Plus members.
If you're flying from London Gatwick, make sure to check out The Gateway by easyJet and No1 Lounges for an extra bit of comfort. As an easyJet Plus member, you can also enjoy discounts on lounges in both the UK and EU.
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Baggage Policy
As easyJet operates only Economy flights, baggage allowance is the same for all passengers.
Cabin baggage:
- Passengers can bring one small carry-on bag per person for no charge.
- Maximum size of carry-on bag is 45 x 36 x 20 cm (including any handles and wheels) and maximum weight is 15 kg.
- Passengers can also pay to add a large cabin bag with a maximum size of 56 x 45 x 25 cm (including any handles or wheels) and maximum weight of 15 kg.
Hold baggage:
- Each passenger (including children and infants) can buy up to three hold bags.
- No single item can weigh more than 32kg. Maximum total size (length + width + height) must be under 275cm.
And if you don’t want to deal with lugging your bags to the airport on the day of your flight, you can take advantage of the Twilight Bag Drop service, which lets you drop off your bags the night before your early morning flight.
For more baggage information, please check easyJet’s baggage policy on the official web-site.
After comparing EasyJet's baggage policy with two other british airlines, it's clear that significant differences exist - while easyJet, British Airways and Jet2 have almost the same hold baggage policy, British Airways has the most generous cabin baggage allowance. Check out the table below:
Cabin baggage | Hold baggage | Extra baggage fees | |
easyJet | - One small bag for person up to 15 kg and a maximum size of 45 x 36 x 20 cm - Option to book a large cabin bag up to 15 kg and a maximum size of 56 x 45 x 25 cm | - Up to three hold bags (of 23 kg) - Option to buy extra weight in 3 kgs units, up to a maximum of 32 kg per bag. | - Large cabin bag - From £5.99 - Hold luggage - up to 15kg - From £6.99 - Hold luggage - up to 23kg - From £9.49 - Airport bag fee - £48 - Additional weight for pre-booked hold luggage up to a maximum of 32 kg - up to £15 per 3kg - Excess weight fee (per kilo) - £12 - Small sports equipment - up £37 - Large sports equipment - up £45 |
British Airways | - One bag up to 56 x 45 x 25cm and up to 23 kg | - Bag up to 90 x 75 x 43cm and up to 23 kg (in Economy and Premium Economy) and up tp 32 kg (in First and Business) | - Excess weight fee (per overweight bag and one-way journey) - £65 |
Jet2 | - One bag up to 10 kg and one small personal item (like laptop bag or handbag) | - Up to three 22kg bags | - Excess weight fee - £12 per kg |
Boarding
EasyJet has made its boarding process simple and streamlined for passengers. Depending on the airport, passengers may use a shuttle or go directly through the air bridge from the terminal to board their flight.
For added convenience, the airline endeavors to send gate information directly to passengers' mobile phones via the easyJet mobile app. Just remember to enable notifications.
Tip: No matter which airline you use, don't rely only on the app for gate information. Always check your gate number on the screens in the airport.
To board the flight quickly and efficiently, EasyJet has a queuing system in place that gives priority to passengers who have requested Special Assistance in advance and are present at the gate. Speedy boarding customers are next, followed by families with young children under the age of 5. Finally, all remaining passengers will be allowed to board.
It's important to note that the boarding deadline is 30-60 minutes before departure, depending on the flight, so be sure to arrive on time and follow the boarding process so you can depart to your destination with ease.
Airplane Interior
Step aboard an easyJet airplane, and you'll be greeted by a modern, simple interior. The cabin boasts a sleek gray color scheme, with easyJet's signature orange and white accents adding a pop of brightness. But perhaps the most noteworthy aspect of the airline's interior is its cleanliness, as evidenced by numerous glowing passenger reviews.
While easyJet doesn't offer in-flight entertainment systems in order to maintain its low-cost model, the airline is currently testing out a possible solution - AirFi's portable inflight entertainment streaming system. The innovative AirFi box will allow passengers to access the onboard shop and browse through a variety of free, user-friendly options like destination content, games, and inflight magazine content.
Seat Space
The seat space in EasyJEt’s Economy class is pretty standard. With a minimum pitch of 71 cm (or 28 inches) and a width of 40.5 cm (or 16 inches) between the armrests, passengers can expect a comfortable but not overly spacious seat.
If you're looking for a little extra wiggle room or just want to guarantee that you'll have a seat with plenty of space, easyJet offers you 2 possibilities:
- Up Front seats - a seat in rows 2-6 (rows 2-5 on some aircraft) free for easyJet Plus cardholders and customers who have purchased a FLEXI fare.
- Extra Legroom seats (up to 91 cm) - free for easyJet Plus cardholders and discounted for customers who have purchased a FLEXI fare. This offer includes a seat with extra legroom, plus all the other benefits of Up Front.
For those who need even more comfort or have special needs, easyJet offers an "Extra Seat" option to book a second seat.
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Service
From the moment you step on the plane, you'll be greeted by a professional and helpful crew that's there to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable. They'll be more than happy to assist you with any special needs you might have during boarding and throughout the flight. Whether it's helping you find your seat or catering to your dietary requirements, you can rest assured that you'll be well taken care of.
Food & Drink
Although easyJet is known for their affordable flights, it's important to note that food and drinks are not included in the ticket price. However, the airline does offer a Bistro menu with meal deals starting from £8.50. These deals include a main, a drink, and a snack. The in-flight menu features a variety of sandwiches, snacks, hot drinks, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages. On longer flights, you may even be able to enjoy a hot meal. Keep in mind that the menu can vary depending on your route.
EasyJet Price Policy
EasyJet's price policy offers benefits for both frequent and occasional travelers. Their low-cost airline model makes it accessible for everyone to fly.
For frequent flyers, easyJet offers 2 loyalty programs:
- easyJet Plus annual membership for £215. The membership benefits include selecting any seat free of charge, an additional cabin bag, the lowest price fare, and an earlier return flight home on the same day, all at no extra cost. Plus, members receive a 10% discount on board.
- Flight Club loyalty programme is available for frequent travelers to enjoy fee-free changes and a price guarantee, ensuring they always get the best fares for their easyJet flights. With their preview of scheduled seat releases and sales, booking with easyJet is a promising option for anyone looking to save money while still enjoying reliable and quality air travel.
Flight Disruptions
As with any airline, easyJet flights can sometimes be subjected to disruptions such as delays or cancellations. These interruptions can stem from a multitude of factors including adverse weather, technical difficulties, or air traffic control constraints.
In the event of an easyJet delay lasting 3 hours or more, or a flight cancellation, you may be eligible for certain remedies under UK261 or EU261. This could include the right to compensation for a flight delay or for a cancelled flight. Depending on the distance of the flight and the duration of the delay or notice of cancellation, compensation can be up to £520 per passenger.
Specific details about easyJet’s delayed or cancelled flight compensation can be found on the airline's official website. It's crucial to remember that compensation might not be due if the disruption is attributed to 'extraordinary circumstances', events that couldn't have been avoided even if all reasonable measures had been taken by the airline.
In some instances, such as when flights are cancelled or delayed for over 5 hours, you may also have the option to choose a flight refund rather than rerouting, according to your passenger rights in UK 261 and EU261.
How to make a complaint
If you've encountered a disruption during your easyJet flight and wish to raise a complaint, you can do so directly via the easyJet official website. The easyJet complaints process typically involves completing an online form where you can detail your experience, provide flight information, and upload any necessary supporting documents. It's vital to retain copies of all correspondence and ensure you have all the necessary flight details, as these will be required when submitting your complaint.
Please note that the process can sometimes be protracted and requires an understanding of the passenger rights outlined in UK261 or EU261. This is where AirAdvisor can help simplify the process, especially when seeking compensation. Our team of legal experts have an in-depth knowledge of passenger rights and can swiftly ascertain your eligibility for compensation.
All you need to do is provide us with your flight information, and we take care of everything else, from filing the complaint to pursuing the claim with the airline. Moreover, we operate on a 'no win, no fee' principle. This means that you won't pay a thing unless we successfully secure your compensation.
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easyJet Review - Conclusion
Overall, flying with EasyJet is really a great budget travel option. Though the tickets may seem very affordable at first glance, you have to carefully consider all the additional fees that may apply depending on your booking and other requirements.
On the benefits side, the booking process is very user-friendly and modern while the planes are clean, sleek, and professional.
However, some drawbacks like difficulties with refunds or delays should be taken into consideration before you make your final choice of carrier.
So, if you’re looking for an inexpensive way to travel, EasyJet could certainly be an option worth considering.
About easyJet
easyJet is a British low-cost carrier airline headquartered in Luton, England. As one of the prominent budget airlines in the UK and EU, it offers an impressive array of routes and a consistent focus on value for money. easyJet launched operations in 1995, setting a new standard for affordable air travel.
Currently, easyJet operates a large network of domestic and international flights, covering over 130 destinations, with a particular focus on Europe. Known for its value-driven service and robust safety protocols, easyJet has been a key player in revolutionising the low-cost carrier market. Its fleet consists of modern, efficient aircraft that balance affordability, reliability, and performance.
FAQ / Common Questions: easyJet Review
If you feel there are lingering queries about easyJet, the following FAQs might provide helpful clarifications:
Is easyJet a reliable airline?
Indeed, easyJet is widely recognised as a reliable airline. As one of the UK's leading low-cost carriers, it operates an extensive network of routes both domestically within the UK and across Europe. The airline has built a reputation for punctuality, efficiency, and safety. easyJet employs a team of well-trained pilots and crew, and operates a fleet of modern, well-maintained aircraft, all contributing to its dependability.
Are easyJet flights really cheap?
Yes, as a budget airline, easyJet offers some of the most competitive prices in the market. However, it's worth noting that while fares are typically lower than traditional carriers, some amenities like meals and extra baggage may come at an additional cost. easyJet provides flexibility with various fare options, and frequently has promotions and discounts, offering even more savings.
How uncomfortable is easyJet?
How comfortable you find an easyJet flight can depend on various factors such as the specific aircraft type and your personal preferences. The airline has made efforts to maximise comfort within the constraints of a low-cost model. Seats are efficiently designed for added comfort on longer flights and you can choose to purchase Speedy Boarding, which includes seat selection.
Does easyJet give free water?
No, unlike some full-service airlines, easyJet does not provide complimentary water or other beverages. However, you have the option to purchase refreshments from the airline's in-flight "Bistro" which offers a range of drinks and snacks for purchase during the flight.
Can I take a 10kg bag on easyJet for free?
Depending on its size, you can. easyJet's carry-on policy permits you to bring one small cabin bag on board for free. Unlike some airlines that limit carry-on bags by weight, easyJet places restrictions on the bag's size instead. Your carry-on must not exceed 45cm x 36cm x 20cm (including any handles or wheels) and must fit under the seat in front of you.
As for checked baggage, easyJet charges an additional fee, and the allowance depends on the weight of the baggage purchased, ranging from 15kg to 32kg. This policy can change, so it's always advisable to verify the details directly on easyJet's website.
Why do people not like easyJet?
Although easyJet is recognised for its budget-friendly fares and vast array of destinations, some passengers might express discontent, often attributed to unpredictable flight delays or cancellations that disrupt travel plans. Additionally, as a low-cost carrier, easyJet doesn't provide complimentary in-flight refreshments, leading to dissatisfaction for those who expect these amenities. The airline's customer service has also been described as inconsistent, with experiences varying between efficient, friendly staff and less satisfactory interactions.
Potential discomfort due to high-density seating arrangements on easyJet's flights, particularly for longer journeys, can sometimes lead to negative reviews. Furthermore, easyJet's strict baggage policy requiring extra charges for any checked luggage and for cabin bags beyond the free small carry-on can contribute to criticism.
However, despite these issues, many passengers appreciate easyJet's affordability, punctuality, and extensive network, deeming it a viable option for budget and time-conscious travellers. The airline's commitment to safety also adds to its generally positive perception.
Has easyJet ever crashed?
Thankfully, easyJet has not experienced any major incidents or crashes in its operational history.
Does easyJet fly Boeing or Airbus?
The majority of easyJet's fleet consists of Airbus models, including the A319, A320, and the more recent A321neo. The exact type of aircraft allocated to your flight is influenced by factors such as the route, the number of passengers, and the flight schedule.
Does easyJet cancel flights often?
No airline can guarantee that cancellations will never occur, but it's important to know that easyJet strives to keep these to an absolute minimum.
As a leading low-cost airline throughout the UK and Europe, easyJet's substantial flight network and numerous daily flights provide it with significant leeway in managing its operations. Moreover, easyJet leverages its extensive experience and resources to proactively address potential disruptions that might lead to cancellations.
Cancelling a flight is always the last option for any airline as it results in operational challenges and could negatively impact their reputation. easyJet adheres to industry norms to avert cancellations whenever plausible. However, unanticipated situations like extreme weather conditions, directives from air traffic control, or technical problems may sometimes force cancellations.
EasyJet, like all airlines operating in the UK and EU, must comply with regulations that prescribe compensation and assistance to you in case of considerable delays or cancellations.
Will easyJet automatically refund Cancelled flights?
When an easyJet flight gets cancelled, you're typically offered several options: rebooking onto another easyJet flight, rerouting at a comparable travel time, or a full refund of the ticket cost. However, this process isn't automatic; it necessitates direct contact with the airline's customer service. The interaction enables easyJet to provide a personalised solution that best meets your specific requirements.
While the refund or rebooking process may initially seem challenging, easyJet's customer service team is dedicated to making it as seamless as possible. Also, in instances of substantial delays or cancellations, under UK and EU regulations, easyJet may be obligated to provide you with additional support such as meals, refreshments, or hotel accommodations, or monetary compensation based on the specific circumstances.
Is easyJet food free?
Unlike some full-service carriers, easyJet, a budget airline, does not offer complimentary meals on its flights. Onboard, you have the option to purchase a range of snacks, sandwiches, and drinks from the airline's "Bistro" menu. For those with special dietary needs, there's an assortment of suitable food and drink options available for purchase as well.
How can I avoid easyJet baggage fees?
To dodge extra luggage charges with easyJet, you can follow these strategies:
- Pack Light: The most effective way to avoid baggage fees is to limit your luggage to the one piece of cabin bag that easyJet allows. This should not exceed the maximum dimensions (including handles and wheels) of 56 x 45 x 25 cm.
- Use Space Wisely: Use packing cubes or compression bags to organise your stuff more efficiently, allowing you to fit more items into your carry-on.
- Book Luggage in Advance: If you're certain you need to check a bag, ensure you pre-book this online before you get to the airport, as the charges are significantly higher at the check-in desk or at the gate.
- Wear Your Extra Items: If you're near the weight limit you've paid for, consider wearing your heaviest clothes and shoes to reduce the weight of your checked luggage.
- Share Luggage Space: If you're travelling with others, consider sharing checked luggage. Often, two people sharing a single checked bag will be cheaper than each having their own.
Remember, the baggage policy can change, so always check the easyJet website for the most accurate, up-to-date information before you start packing for your flight.
Where is the best place to sit on an easyJet plane?
The preferred spot to sit on an easyJet aircraft can greatly vary according to personal comfort preferences. If you're seeking extra legroom, booking an exit-row seat might be ideal. However, be aware that this usually entails an additional fee and some safety responsibilities.
In pursuit of a quieter journey, it's advisable to secure a seat towards the plane's front, far from the engines. Generally, the foremost part of each cabin section tends to be more peaceful and has the advantage of receiving service sooner.
While easyJet mostly operates single-aisle aircraft, if you're on one of their few larger planes, window seats in the middle section offer a balance of aisle accessibility and a window view.
How old are easyJet planes?
The average age of easyJet's fleet aligns with industry standards, hovering around 8 years. Their collection of aircraft includes a blend of newer and older models, primarily comprised of Airbus A319s and A320s, with the newer Airbus A320neos and A321neos incorporated recently. Despite the range in age, rest assured that all aircraft undergo stringent maintenance protocols to ensure they uphold high safety and performance standards.
Does easyJet run on time?
Maintaining a strict timetable is a priority for any airline, and easyJet is no exception. The airline takes numerous steps to ensure punctuality, from efficient check-in procedures to streamlined boarding processes. Despite these efforts, several external variables like operational challenges, inclement weather, or air traffic control constraints can have an impact on on-time departures and arrivals.
It's crucial to remember that while no airline can promise an unbroken record of punctuality, easyJet generally maintains a commendable on-time performance. Various factors contribute to this including their modern fleet, experienced crew, and effective operations management.
Nevertheless, on-time performance can vary depending on the route and season, among other variables. For instance, flights during peak travel times or to and from congested airports may be more prone to delays.
How to get a good seat on easyJet without paying?
Procuring a desirable seat on easyJet without additional charges is somewhat dependent on a few factors, but some tactics might enhance your chances. If you don't opt to purchase a specific seat, easyJet will automatically assign one to you during the check-in phase, which typically opens 30 days before departure for passengers who have purchased a seat or 15 days for those who have not.
When check-in opens, it might be worth promptly logging in to see if there are any attractive seats available without any additional fees. Remember that seat availability will generally be better the earlier you check in, so being proactive can be beneficial.
Flying during off-peak times or on less frequented routes may increase your odds of nabbing a favourable seat without any extra cost. Furthermore, if you're a member of easyJet’s loyalty program, easyJet Plus, you could benefit from perks such as advanced seat selection, depending on your membership tier.
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