A campaign for the maximum weight for items of aircraft baggage to be 23 kilogrammes is launched today be aviation trade unions.
I recently met with members of the trade union Heathrow Liaison Committee (HLC) and other trade unionists from the aviation sector. I was pleased indeed to have the opportunity to discuss avaiation issues, specifically the campaign to reduce items of baggage on aircraft to 23kg, with Paco Saez (HLC Secretary), Colin Terry (HLC Campaigns Co-Ordinator), Mark Ive (HLC Steering Committee member) together with Peter Harvey (National Member Unite Sector Committee for Civil Aviation), Rhys McCarthy (Representing Unite the Union) and Enrique Carmona (Representing CC.OO – Spanish trade union).
These trade union colleagues travelled to Brussels to meet MEPs to discuss current EU legislation and what could be done in future to improve health and safety for aviation workers. Air transport is, of course, one of the highest risk industries for musculoskeletal disorders, with an unacceptable level of injuries caused every year by the manual handling of heavy bags.
I have, on occasion, been required to travel by air on long-haul flights. From my experience, I see no reason why individuals would need to fill their suitcases above and beyond this proposed 23kg limit. I fully support the trade union campaign and will do whatever I can to promote it.
Not only do excessively heavy bags pose a heath and safety threat to workers, but they also cost airlines when they are forced to compensate injured employees. Let’s not forget, in addition, the huge added cost to the environment, with heavier planes consuming far more fuel than those transporting less baggage. Adhering to the 23kg limit will make travelling safer for everyone.
