Air India Baggage Policy

Understanding the Air India Baggage Policy is essential for ensuring a smooth travel experience, especially for passengers embarking on international journeys. Air India offers varying baggage allowances depending on the class of service, destination, and type of baggage (checked or carry-on). This guide will cover the key details, including allowances for specific routes, policies for excess baggage, special considerations, and more, helping travelers avoid unnecessary baggage fees or issues during check-in.

Overview of Air India Baggage Allowances 

The Air India Baggage Policy distinguishes between domestic and international routes, with specific weight limits and allowances for different classes of service. Additionally, certain routes, such as flights from India to the USA or India to the UK, have specific policies that passengers need to consider.

Air Indian Baggage Policy Weight and Size Limits for Checked Baggage On Domestic Flights 

The checked baggage allowance varies as per the destination and travel class. Let us look into the same. 

• Economy Value passengers get a baggage limit of 15 kg or 33 lb; the same limit applies to Economy Classic passengers.
• Economy Flex passengers are entitled to 25 kg or 55.1 lb baggage.
• Premium Economy Classic and Flex passengers are allowed 25 kg or 55.1 lb. 
• Business Classic passengers can carry 25 kg or 55.1 lbs of baggage, while Business Flex passengers are permitted to bring 35 kg or 77.1 lb of baggage. 
• First-class passengers can carry 40 kg or 88.1 lbs of baggage. 

The baggage allowance mentioned above is only applicable to flights operated by Air India, and not codeshare or Air Indian Express flights. Those with Star Alliance Gold membership get an extra baggage allowance of 20 kg or 44 lb in the economy class. 

Now let us look at the dimension limits for checked baggage in the case of domestic flights: 

• For checked baggage in the Economy Class, the total dimensions (length + width + height) should not exceed 157. cm (62 inches) per bag. If it is a combination of two bags then the permissible dimension is 272 cm or 107 inches. 
• Passengers with overweight or oversized baggage may face additional charges, which vary based on the route and excess weight.

For Air India’s Baggage Policy on flights to Canada, the USA, and the UK, it’s crucial to adhere to these size and weight guidelines, as any deviations could result in significant fees at check-in.

Air India Checked Baggage Policy for International Routes 

Air India operates flights to numerous international destinations, and the baggage allowances can vary significantly depending on the route. To help passengers navigate these differences, this section will highlight the Air India Baggage Policy for key international routes such as India to the USA, India to the UK, India to Canada, and India to the UAE, etc. 

1. For passengers from India to Srilanka Economy Value and Classic customers are allowed checked baggage with a weight of 30 kg or 66.1 lb. Economy Flex passengers are allowed 40 kg or 88.1 lb. Business Classic passengers can also carry 40 kg or 88.1 lbs of baggage, while Business Flex passengers are permitted baggage of 45 kg or 99.2 lb.  Passengers in the First Class are also allowed 45 kg or 99.2 lb of baggage. 

2. For flights from India to the United States Economy Value, Classic, and Flex passengers can carry two checked baggage pieces weighing a maximum of 23 kg or 50.7 lbs per piece. Premium Economy Classic and Flex customers can bring along two baggage pieces, weighing not more than 23 kg or 50.7 lb per bag. Business Classic and Flex customers can bring two pieces of checked baggage and each must not exceed 32 kg or 70.5 lbs. 

3. Passengers flying from India to the Gulf and Middle East region have a different set of allowances for checked baggage. The baggage allowance is 25 kg or 55.1 lb for Economy Value passengers; 30 kg or 66.1 lb for Classic passengers and 35 kg or 77.1 lb for Flex passengers. Premium Economy Classic passengers can carry 30 kg or 66.1 lbs of weight, while Flex customers can carry 35 kg or 77.1 lb of checked baggage. Business Classic passengers can carry 40 kgs or 88.1 lbs of checked baggage; whereas Business Flex and First Class passengers may bring along 45 kg or 99.2 lbs of checked baggage per piece. 

For more details on Air India’s checked baggage allowance for other international destinations like Israel, Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, etc you may refer to Air India’s official website. 

Ait India Carry-On Baggage Allowance 

The Air India Baggage Policy also specifies rules for carry-on luggage (cabin baggage):

Economy Class

Passengers in the Economy and Premium Economy Class are allowed to carry one piece of hand baggage weighing up to 7 kg or 15 lb. The size limitations should be 55 cm or 21.6 inches in height, 40 cm or 15.7 inches long, and 20 cm or 7.8 inches wide. The combined dimensions shouldn’t exceed 115 cm or 45.27 inches. 

Business and First Class

Business and first-class passengers are allowed hand baggage weighing a maximum of 10 kg or 22 lbs. The dimension requirements are similar to the Economy Class. 

All passengers irrespective of any class they are in are allowed only a single hand baggage piece. 

Air India Baggage Policy Rules for Personal Items 

Passengers are allowed a personal item whose weight shouldn’t exceed 3 kg or 6.6 lb.  The list of personal items included onboard are as follows: 

• Handbag, purse, or waist pouch
• Camera or Binoculars 
• Wrap or overcoat
• Blanket or rug
• Umbrella (which can be folded) 
• Medicines you may need onboard like an inhaler
• Reading material (in small amounts)
• Duty-free goods (where allowed) 

If you are carrying an infant, then you are allowed to carry their food, feeding bottle, and carry-on tote to fill the food and bottles. Passengers requiring assistance are permitted to carry collapsible wheelchairs, braces or crutches, and walking sticks. 

The dimensions mustn’t exceed 40 cm x 30 cm x 10 cm (per baggage). In case your baggage’s weight exceeds the above-mentioned dimensions then it will be regarded as cabin baggage. Under such circumstances, you may either have to check your cabin bag or the additional item that you wish to include as your personal item. 

Excess Baggage: Prepaid and Airport Booking

If passengers need to carry more than the permitted baggage allowance, they have the option to purchase excess baggage either at the airport or in advance. Air India offers the convenience of prepaid excess baggage, which allows passengers to pay for additional weight when booking their ticket or prior to their flight.

Prepaid Excess Baggage

Prepaying for excess baggage is often cheaper than paying at the airport. Travelers can purchase additional baggage online through Air India’s website by logging into their booking and selecting the “Manage My Booking” option. This can be done up to 24 hours before the flight.

How to Book Excess Baggage

Booking excess baggage is a straightforward process. Passengers need to access the Air India website, enter their booking reference, and select the amount of extra baggage they wish to purchase. They will be provided with the cost, and once payment is made, they receive a confirmation that can be shown at the check-in counter.

Charges for excess baggage depend on the route, with different fees for routes such as India to the USA, India to Canada, and India to the UK. It’s advisable to pre-book extra baggage to avoid higher fees at the airport.

Special Considerations 

Air India offers a range of special baggage considerations to accommodate passengers with unique needs. These include traveling with sports equipment, pets, and dangerous goods, as well as understanding the rules for excess baggage and specific size and weight limits. When you are carrying small musical instruments they can be stowed in the cabin. However, for the bulkier ones, you will have to book a separate seat or send them as checked baggage. 

These special considerations ensure that passengers have the flexibility to carry necessary items, whether for personal, recreational, or professional purposes while staying compliant with Air India’s safety regulations. Here are some factors to follow regarding special baggage:

• The weight of the special baggage should not be over 75 kg or 165 lbs.
• You should pack the bag well so that it doesn’t cause injury to other passengers.
• There should not be dangerous goods within the special baggage
• You must prepay the seat for the baggage and book it in advance.
• The baggage you are carrying shouldn’t block the aisle or emergency exit. 

Traveling with Sports Equipment

According to Air India’s official baggage policy, the following types of sports equipment are permitted:

• Golf Equipment – One set including golf clubs, balls, and shoes. Only one golf kit can be included as a part of the free bag allowance of a certain travel class. If your travel class does not have a provision for free baggage then additional charges may incur. 
• Ski Equipment – One pair of skis, poles, boots, and bindings, or a snowboard with boots.
• Bicycles – Non-motorized bicycles packed in a secure bicycle bag or box.
• Surfboards – One surfboard packed in a suitable protective case.
• Scuba Diving Equipment – Diving equipment, excluding tanks, which must be empty.
• Fishing Equipment – One set including rods, reels, a tackle box, and boots.
• Hockey and Lacrosse Equipment – One stick and equipment bag.
• Archery Equipment – Bow and arrows packed in a proper case.
• Cricket Equipment – Cricket bats, balls, and protective gear packed in a secure bag.
• Tennis and Badminton Rackets – Packed in a racket case.

The Air India Baggage Policy allows for the transportation of such items as part of the checked baggage allowance, but specific size and weight limits apply. If the sports equipment exceeds the standard baggage allowance, additional fees may be charged. 

Size and Weight Limits for Sports Equipment

Sports equipment should ideally fit within the regular baggage size of 158 cm (62 inches) for the combined dimensions of length, width, and height. In terms of weight, sports equipment is generally subject to the same weight limits as regular checked baggage—23 kg for economy class and 32 kg for business/first class.

Excess Baggage Fees for Sports Equipment

If the equipment exceeds these dimensions or weight, prepaid excess baggage options are available, which can be booked online at a discounted rate compared to paying at the airport. This is especially beneficial for travelers who need to transport bulky items like bicycles or surfboards.

It is important to notify Air India in advance if you are traveling with larger sports equipment to ensure that the necessary accommodations are made and that there are no surprises at check-in.

Traveling with Pets

Air India offers a pet-friendly policy for passengers who wish to travel with their pets. According to the Air India Baggage Policy, pets such as dogs, cats, and birds are allowed to travel either in the cabin or as checked baggage, depending on their size and weight. However, there are specific rules for traveling with pets that passengers must follow:

In-Cabin Pet Travel

Small pets may be permitted to travel in the cabin provided the combined weight of the pet alongside the container is below 7 kg or 15 lb. Moreover, the pet must be properly secured in a soft, leak-proof carrier. The combined dimensions of the carrier should not exceed 115 cm (45 inches), and the carrier should fit under the seat in front of the passenger. 

You should also avoid keeping any food inside the container where you have kept your pet. Sedating or tranquilizing your pet is a strict no-no as it may adversely affect its health. If you have an unaccompanied minor on board, then he or she isn’t permitted to travel with a pet. 

Checked Baggage for Pets

Larger pets that do not meet the in-cabin weight requirement can be transported in the aircraft hold as checked baggage. The pet’s weight, including the carrier, should not exceed 32 kg, and the combined dimensions of the carrier should not exceed 203 cm (80 inches).

Health and Safety Requirements

Passengers must present a valid health certificate, vaccination records, and any other necessary documentation before traveling with their pets. Certain countries, including those in the UK, Canada, and UAE, have additional entry regulations for pets, which must be adhered to.

Passengers are encouraged to book pet travel in advance to ensure space availability and to clarify any specific restrictions or requirements based on the destination country.

Dangerous Goods

Air India, like all international carriers, has strict guidelines for the transportation of dangerous goods. These items include materials that are considered hazardous, such as flammable liquids, explosives, corrosive substances, and other restricted items. According to the Air India Baggage Policy, the following categories of items are considered dangerous and are prohibited from being carried in both checked and cabin baggage:

• Flammable Items: This includes flammable liquids (such as gasoline, lighter fluid, or paint thinner), aerosols, and certain alcoholic beverages with a high alcohol content.
• Explosive Materials: Fireworks, gunpowder, ammunition, and other explosive substances are strictly prohibited from both cabin and checked baggage.
• Compressed Gases: Aerosol sprays, unless in small quantities for personal care, are generally not allowed. Compressed gases such as butane, propane, or oxygen tanks are restricted and may only be transported under special conditions.
• Toxic or Corrosive Substances: These include chemicals like acids, bleach, and other industrial-strength cleaning agents, which are not allowed on Air India flights.
• Radioactive Materials: Any radioactive materials, such as those used for medical treatments or industrial purposes, are not permitted.

Under the Air India Baggage Policy, most dangerous goods are entirely prohibited from being carried in both cabin and checked baggage. 

Exceptions and Special Handling

While most dangerous goods are strictly prohibited, there are some exceptions where limited quantities of specific items may be allowed under stringent conditions. These include personal items such as medical supplies and small quantities of household items. However, the following restrictions apply:

Medicines and Toiletries

Passengers are allowed to carry a limited amount of non-flammable medicinal or toiletry items, such as aerosols for personal grooming, in their cabin baggage. These items must not exceed 100 ml per container, and all items should be packed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag in compliance with the Air India carry-on baggage policy.

Electronic Devices

Devices containing lithium-ion batteries, such as laptops, smartphones, and tablets, are permitted in carry-on baggage but must adhere to strict guidelines. Spare batteries must be packed in their original packaging or insulated to prevent short circuits. It’s important to know that Air India has placed a ban on Samsung Galaxy (Note 7). You can neither carry them in your checked or carry-on baggage. 

Alcoholic Beverages

Passengers are allowed to carry alcoholic beverages in their checked baggage, provided that the alcohol content does not exceed 70%. The maximum quantity allowed per person is five liters, and the bottle should be securely packed to prevent leakage.

Small Oxygen Canisters for Medical Use

Passengers who require oxygen canisters for medical reasons can carry small, approved canisters, but these must be pre-approved by Air India before the flight. The airline may require a doctor’s certification, and the oxygen equipment must comply with specific safety standards.

Special Restrictions for International Routes

Dangerous goods regulations can vary depending on the destination country. For instance, routes such as Air India flights from India to the USA, UK, or Canada may have additional restrictions or require specific documentation when traveling with certain items. The Air India Baggage Policy requires passengers to declare any dangerous goods at check-in, and the airline may refuse to transport items that do not comply with international or local regulations.

Air India Baggage Policy India to USA

On flights between India and the USA, there are strict guidelines for carrying lithium batteries and electronic devices. Passengers must follow Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations in addition to Air India’s policies.

To ensure passenger safety, Air India advises passengers to carefully review the list of prohibited items and avoid carrying dangerous goods. If you are unsure whether an item qualifies as dangerous, it’s best to check with Air India before your flight.

Safety Requirements and Compliance

Air India complies with the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Dangerous Goods Regulations (DGR), which are followed by all international airlines. These regulations are in place to protect passengers, crew, and aircraft from hazards posed by dangerous goods.

Labeling and Packaging

Any item that qualifies as a dangerous good must be properly labeled and packaged according to IATA standards. For example, lithium batteries must be packed in such a way that they are protected from short-circuiting, and any leakage-prone item must be securely sealed.

Notification and Approval

Passengers who need to carry dangerous goods that fall under the allowed exemptions must notify Air India in advance and seek approval. Without prior approval, the airline reserves the right to refuse the item at check-in.

By adhering to these safety requirements, Air India ensures a safe and secure travel experience for all passengers.

How to Report Dangerous Goods

If a passenger inadvertently carries dangerous goods or discovers them in their baggage, they must inform Air India staff immediately. This helps avoid safety risks and ensures that the item is handled according to airline protocols. Air India provides clear instructions at check-in counters and during the boarding process to ensure passengers are aware of their responsibilities regarding dangerous goods.

Air India Baggage Policy for Infants 

According to the Air India Baggage Policy, infants (defined as children below 2 years of age who do not occupy a seat) are entitled to a certain amount of free baggage allowance. However, the allowances differ based on the route, class of travel, and the fare purchased. Infants in all classes are given a baggage allowance for one bag that shouldn’t exceed 10 kg or 22 lbs. 

Air India Cabin Baggage Policy for Infants

In addition to checked baggage, parents are allowed to carry certain essential items for their infants in the cabin, under the Air India baggage policy carry-on rules. These include:

Infant Food and Supplies

Air India permits parents to carry sufficient food, feeding bottles, and other necessary items for the care and feeding of the infant during the flight. While the general cabin baggage weight limit for passengers is 7 kg, baby items may be exempted from this restriction, provided they are essential for in-flight care.

Strollers and Prams

As per the Air India baggage policy, a collapsible stroller or pram can be carried free of charge in the aircraft cabin if space permits. If the pram is too large, it may be checked in at the gate and will be returned upon arrival.

Special Considerations for Infant Travel

Air India Baggage Policy takes into account special considerations for passengers traveling with infants, including how to handle special equipment and safety measures:

Infant Car Seats

Parents may bring an FAA-approved infant car seat on board if they have purchased a separate seat for the infant. If no seat has been purchased, the car seat must be checked in as part of the free baggage allowance for the infant.

Lounge and Check-In Privileges

For families traveling in Business or First Class, Air India offers special lounge access, where parents can use infant care rooms. Check-in privileges may also be extended to parents traveling with infants to ease the boarding process.

Special Infant Care Services

Air India provides bassinets on long-haul international flights for infants, which can be pre-requested during the booking process. Additionally, the airline accommodates special meal requests for older infants who require special meals during flights.

Excess Baggage for Infants

If parents or guardians need to carry more than the free baggage allowance for their infants, they must pay excess baggage charges. The Air India baggage policy change has made it possible to prepay for excess baggage at a discounted rate through the airline’s official website.

Prepaid Excess Baggage

To avoid higher charges at the airport, parents can opt for prepaid excess baggage. By doing so, they can purchase additional baggage allowance online at discounted rates for both domestic and international flights.

Booking and Charges

Parents traveling on routes like Air India baggage policy India to USA or Air India baggage policy UK can book and pay for extra baggage in advance using Air India’s online system. The rates are available on the official Air India website, and the process is easy to complete through the booking management portal.

Infant Baggage Weight and Size Limits

The weight and size limits for infant baggage are governed by the same rules that apply to adult passengers. For checked baggage, the maximum size typically allowed is 158 cm in overall dimensions (length + width + height), and the weight limit is 10 kg.

• On international routes, such as Air India baggage policy India to Canada and India to the UAE, the weight and size limits remain the same, ensuring a consistent experience across all routes.
• Cabin baggage, as mentioned, must comply with Air India baggage policy carry-on restrictions, but infant essentials such as food and diapers are generally allowed in addition to the regular carry-on allowance.

Additional Infant Services

Air India offers several services to make traveling with infants easier, such as priority boarding for families, assistance with prams and strollers, and infant seat belts for safety. These services ensure that passengers traveling with infants have a smooth and comfortable experience throughout their journey.

Baggage Tracking and Lost or Damaged Baggage Policy

Air India provides robust support for passengers in the event of lost or damaged baggage. Through their official Air India baggage tracking system, passengers can track their checked-in baggage in real time using the World Tracer tool. In case of lost baggage, passengers must immediately report it at the airport’s baggage services desk, where a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) will be issued. According to Air India’s lost or damaged baggage policy, if the baggage is not found within 21 days, compensation may be provided as per international aviation regulations.

For damaged baggage, Air India offers repair services or compensation based on the extent of the damage and the Air India baggage policy guidelines. Additionally, passengers are advised to declare valuable items during check-in to ensure proper compensation if lost or damaged during transit. This system ensures that passengers can resolve baggage issues swiftly and efficiently.

Air India Membership and Baggage Policy

Frequent flyers and members of Air India’s membership programs benefit from additional baggage allowances, especially on international flights. Gold and Maharaja Club members are often granted an extra piece of luggage or an increased weight limit, making it easier for loyal customers to travel with more baggage without incurring extra fees.

Conclusion 

Whether you’re flying domestically or internationally, it’s crucial to understand the Air India Baggage Policy to avoid unnecessary fees or complications at the airport. By reviewing the baggage guidelines specific to your route, booking excess baggage in advance, and adhering to size and weight restrictions, you can ensure a smooth travel experience. With special considerations for sports equipment, pets, and dangerous goods, Air India provides flexible options for passengers, making it a traveler-friendly airline in terms of baggage allowances.

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Frequently Asked Questions