Reports have recently emerged about an issue which arose on an Easyjet flight from Birmingham to Geneva. The flight was scheduled to leave on Boxing Day and those onboard were probably pleased to be flying at all bearing in mind the disasterous snowy conditions in the lead up to christmas.

 
However, after a 30 minutes delay the passengers were advised that due to an error, the plane had taken on too much fuel and 37 of them would have to get off. Only 7 volunteered, so the staff decided that the last 30 to check-in would be removed from the flight. According to news reports, they were threatened with arrest if they didn't comply.

Those who did manage to stay on the plane were told on arrival that due to the overfuelling their luggage had been removed from the flight and would follow on later. Reports suggest that some people didn't receive their luggage for another 5 days, causing them significant inconvenience.

It's not clear whether Easyjet advised passengers of their rights to compensation as they are obliged to do if they are denied boarding. Nolan Mortimer, travel lawyer and founder of leading website www.accidents-abroad.com said:

"It's only human that mistakes are made. Sadly this mistake had an impact on many people who were about to go on a well deserved holiday. My experience is that airline operators are not advising passengers of their rights and are being obstructive when those people affected are trying to claim the compensation due. I would urge those affected to contact the airline and demand compensation."