New Flight Baggage Rules: New Regulations for Air Travel, Essential Information for Passengers

New Flight Baggage Rules: Air travel has become a common mode of transportation for many. However, it is crucial to be aware of the luggage regulations before your journey. Recently, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and various airlines have introduced significant changes to baggage rules. Being unaware of these new regulations could lead to fines at the airport. This blog post will discuss the new rules and provide essential information to make your air travel smoother and more secure.

New Luggage Policy: What Are the Changes?

To enhance airport security and expedite the boarding process, the Government of India has implemented changes to luggage regulations. These changes are applicable to both domestic and international flights.

• One Cabin Bag Rule: According to the new rule, each passenger is now allowed to carry only one handbag or cabin bag on the aircraft. The primary reason for this is to speed up the security check process and reduce clutter on board.
• Weight and Size Limitations: The maximum weight for a cabin bag is 7 kg. Its dimensions should generally not exceed 55 cm (height) x 40 cm (length) x 20 cm (width).
• Personal Items: In addition to one cabin bag, passengers can carry a personal item such as a laptop bag, a lady’s purse, or a small bag weighing up to 3 kg.
• Mandatory Check-in: All other luggage, apart from the limited items mentioned above, must be checked in.

Luggage Policies of Major Airlines

India’s leading airlines have also updated their luggage policies in line with the new BCAS regulations.

Air India:

• Passengers in Economy and Premium Economy classes can carry one handbag weighing up to 7 kg.
• For Business and First Class passengers, this limit is extended to 10 kg.
• Additionally, a small personal item (like a purse or laptop bag) is permitted.

IndiGo:

• IndiGo allows passengers to carry one cabin bag weighing 7 kg and one personal item (like a handbag or laptop bag) weighing up to 3 kg.
• The combined dimensions of both bags should not exceed 115 cm.

Consequences of Rule Violations

If a passenger violates these rules, they may have to pay additional charges or fines. For overweight luggage, an extra fee per kilogram may be applicable, which varies by airline. Therefore, it is wise to check your airline’s specific baggage rules before your journey.

Essential Tips for Passengers

• Check Rules When Booking: When booking your ticket or before your travel date, visit the airline’s official website to review their latest baggage policies.
• Measure Weight and Size: Before leaving home, accurately measure the weight and size of your bags to avoid any issues at the airport.
• Keep Essentials in Your Handbag: Place your necessary items such as medicines, passport, tickets, and other valuables in your handbag.

These new rules have been introduced to make air travel safer and more organized. Adhering to these regulations will ensure your journey is more comfortable and hassle-free.