easyJet Review

Originally set up in 1995 by Sir Stelios Haji Ioannou, easyJet has done a huge amount for the Europe project. The Euro was one attempt, but it is the connection of people that matters and easyJet connects many cities, all at low cost. As the name suggests, it is ‘easy’ to do!

Operating over 560 routes across 29 countries, easyJet has a fleet of more than 200 aircraft and employs over 7,300 people, including 1,900 pilots and 4,300 cabin crew. Its corporate website states that it holds “strong positions in key markets: No. 1 in Gatwick, Milan and Geneva; No. 2 in Paris”. Headquartered at Luton, England, easyJet has very likely “revolutionised the travel industry in Europe” and “pioneered the use of the Internet for travel”. It served over 50 million passengers in 2010, which backs up its claims!

Sir Stelios is still a shareholder but no longer part of the management. Indeed he allegedly has some issues with easyJet and is now establishing another airline called Fastjet.

We have tested easyJet many times and find it to be a winner. Mostly on time, but not always as there are many factors in Europe that delay flights and one common reason is congestion at airports. Inclement weather is, of course, another cause of flight delays. (Tip: Book the earlier flights, as airport delays usually compound during the day.)

For business passengers, who pay a bit more, there is a guarantee that, if you are late, then easyJet will give you a free flight. This is all part of the move to attract more business passengers.

We find that web check-in is the way to go. If you have no hold baggage, then you will have no check in issues. If you do have a bag then the bag drop is a good idea. Like all low cost airlines they operate a strict baggage weight policy, so there is no allowance for a few grams over. The good news is that there is no limit to the weight of hand baggage, other than you have to be able to lift it into the overhead compartments. There is, however, a size limit.

Self service check in at Geneva airport

No seats are allocated unless you pay extra. This seems to work well and, if the flight is not full, go to the back of the aircraft for a better chance of having the seat next to you free.

On board, in-flight service is good. The staff are friendly and treat you as a customer not a burden. Food is very reasonably priced and a number of deals are offered. On some flights you can book your onward ground transport, such as the Gatwick Express for flights into London Gatwick.

The in-flight magazine is worth reading and has useful destination information.

Overall we rate easyJet as one of the best ways to travel around Europe. Just book early for the best deals.