Hi All, and thanks very much for all your replies, they're very helpful. I think I'll take the advice of 777boyo and just travel with handluggage only. It sounds like a lot less hassle.
It's good to at least understand the check-in policy now and plan around that.
I have the Staff Traveller app and will keep an eye on it for loads.
Mgggpilot, yep, I say it often to my retired colleagues, it's a gift to have had a long and safe career and something to be thankful for. Stay safe!