Traveling by air just got a little different! If you’re planning to fly soon, there are new baggage rules you need to be aware of to avoid any hassle at the airport. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has recently updated the policy on hand luggage, allowing passengers to carry only one cabin bag on flights, both domestic and international.
What’s New with Hand Luggage Rules?
The new rules aim to streamline the airport process and reduce crowding at security checks. Now, passengers are only allowed to carry one hand bag or cabin bag inside the cabin. Any additional bags must be checked in at the counter.
Air India’s Hand Baggage Guidelines
For Air India passengers, the hand baggage weight limits are as follows:
- Economy & Premium Economy: You can carry one bag weighing up to 7 kg, with total dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 115 cm.
- Business & First Class: These passengers are allowed up to 10 kg of hand luggage, with the same size limit.
In addition to your cabin bag, Air India passengers can carry:
- A laptop bag or ladies purse (as long as it fits under the seat and doesn’t exceed 3 kg).
If your baggage exceeds the weight or size limit, be prepared for additional charges. If you’re traveling with special items like musical instruments, you may need to book an extra seat to secure them, as long as the weight does not exceed 75 kg.
IndiGo’s Hand Baggage Rules
IndiGo follows similar guidelines:
- One cabin bag weighing up to 7 kg and a maximum size of 115 cm (length + width + height).
- You can also bring a laptop bag or lady’s purse, but it must weigh less than 3 kg.
Check-in Baggage Limits
- For domestic flights, passengers are allowed to check in 15 kg of baggage, with an additional 10 kg for multi-seat bookings.
- International flights generally allow 20 kg to 30 kg of check-in baggage, depending on your destination.
Why the Change?
These new baggage policies come as air travel is experiencing a surge in passengers. In fact, November 2024 saw a record number of travelers, which has increased pressure on airport operations. With the new rules, the goal is to make security checks faster and more efficient for everyone.
What Was the Weight Limit Before?
Previously, passengers could carry hand bags weighing anywhere from 8 kg to 12 kg, depending on the class. Now, the limit has been adjusted to 7 kg for Economy and 10 kg for First and Business Class passengers.
Key Takeaways for Your Next Flight:
- You’re allowed only one hand bag (both for domestic and international flights).
- If your bag exceeds the weight or size limit, be ready to check it in.
- Economy & Premium Economy passengers can carry up to 7 kg, while Business & First Class passengers can carry 10 kg.
- Flights booked before May 2, 2024 may follow the old rules for hand baggage weight.
- Keep your bag within the prescribed weight and size to avoid delays and additional charges.
Make sure you’re familiar with these new rules before you travel to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience at the airport!
