Boyband star collapses trying to avoid baggage fee

A singer in a boyband vomited and collapsed on a flight from London to Glasgow after an unusual attempt to avoid an extra baggage fee with airliner easyJet. Picture: PA

James McElvar, 19, passed out while travelling with airline carrier easyJet after performing with Rewind.

Airline staff told him was only allowed to carry one bag on board, so instead of paying the £45 excess charge he quickly donned all the clothes he had packed.

He got on the plane wearing multiple T-shirts, jumpers, jeans, jackets and hats, but the heat caused him to vomit and pass out.

The singer was taken off the plane at Glasgow Airport on Wednesday to a waiting ambulance.

The band reassured fans on Twitter: “For everyone asking James is OK. He is being looked after in hospital now back home safe in Glasgow. He sends you all his love.”

They later added: “James is much better now. Still in a bit of shock but he’s recovered. And the other boys are fine and home safe.”

McElvar told The Sun newspaper: “It felt just like I was having a heart attack. I was so hot I felt I would pass out as soon as I boarded.

“I was soaked with sweat and within minutes I was sick. I got moved to another seat but I collapsed moments later. It was a nightmare.”

EasyJet said the airline offers “one of the most generous cabin bag allowances” with no weight limit, but passengers are permitted to carry on one item only. Otherwise travellers are asked to pay £45 to check extra bags into the hold.

A spokesman told the paper: “During the flight Mr McElvar became unwell and our crew on board assisted him. We wish him a speedy recovery.”