Ryanair will no longer let passengers take a small suitcase on its planes for free, with charges for a 10kg case to be introduced in November.

The Dublin-based airline said it is overhauling its baggage rules to reduce delays.

Passengers who do not pay for priority boarding are currently permitted to take a small bag on board, and a second larger bag such as a wheelie suitcase up to 10kg can be put in the hold free of charge.

This policy was introduced in January as flights were being delayed by people struggling to find space for their luggage in overhead lockers.

But Ryanair said the change has resulted in up to 120 bags being tagged at gates for each flight, meaning departures are still being disrupted.

There will be no luggage carried in the hold free of charge from November, with passengers having to pay £8 to check in a 10kg bag. The existing charge of £25 for putting luggage weighing up to 20kg in the hold will remain.

The maximum size of small bags allowed on board - such as handbags or laptop bags - will be increased by 40 per cent but they must still fit under the seat in front.