Air Serbia Baggage Policy

Air Serbia Baggage Policy provides specific allowances based on ticket class and flight route, as well as guidelines for extra fees, delayed baggage protocols, and policies for traveling with special items. Below is a detailed look at each component to help passengers understand their options and requirements when traveling with Air Serbia.

Air Serbia Carry-On Baggage Allowance

The Air Serbia carry-on policy is designed to ensure safety, comfort, and convenience for travelers, offering different limits depending on fare class.  The carry-on baggage allowance also varies according to the destination of travel. 

• Passengers in the Economy Light, Economy Comfort, and Economy Standard are to carry one hand luggage weighing not more than 8 kg or 17 pounds.  This regulation is for flights within Europe, and even the Middle East and Europe. For business class passengers the weight restriction is two pieces of baggage with each weighing a maximum of 8 kg.

• For flights between Belgrade and the United States, both the Economy and Business class passengers can carry one bag that doesn’t exceed 8 kg. 

• For flights plying between Belgrade, and China, the carry-on baggage allowance is one bag weighing 8 kg for Economy class passengers, and 2 bags of 8 kg each for Business class passengers. 

Additional Personal Item 

All travelers are permitted to bring small personal items in addition to their main carry-on, including:

• A small handbag or laptop bag (must fit under the seat)
• Outerwear (coat, blanket, etc.)
• Duty-free shopping items
• A small backpack
• A small camera
• Binoculars 
• A briefcase or file case
• Walking stick
• Folding pushchair, folding wheelchair 

To avoid issues during boarding, all carry-on bags must fit comfortably in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.

The personal item allowance also varies as per destination:

• Within Europe and the Middle East and Europe the baggage allowance for personal items for Economy and Business class passengers is one bag with a maximum weight of 4 kg. 
• For flights between Belgrade and the United States, the personal item allowance is one bag with a maximum weight of 4 kg. 
• For flights traveling to Belgrade and China, the maximum weight limit is 4 kg for a single personal item. 

Air Serbia Checked Baggage Allowance by Fare Type

The checked baggage policy at Air Serbia varies by fare class, ensuring travelers have options based on their specific needs and ticket choices. Here’s what’s allowed:

Economy Class

• Economy Light: No checked baggage allowance is included in the ticket. Passengers can pay for checked baggage if needed.
• Economy Standard: One checked bag up to 23 kg with a combined maximum dimension of 158 cm (length + width + height) is included in the fare.
• Economy Comfort and Above: Passengers can bring one checked bag up to 23 kg with dimensions up to 158 cm.

Business Class

Business Class passengers are allowed two checked bags, each weighing up to 32 kg, with dimensions up to 158 cm per bag.

For flights between Belgrade and the United States Economy class passengers can carry two bags weighing 23 kgs each as checked baggage. For Business class passengers the permissible weight limit is two bags weighing a maximum of 32 kgs per bag. 

International and Long-Haul Flights 

For long-haul and international flights, baggage allowances can vary based on destination and fare class. Air Serbia recommends checking specific route details on its website to confirm the exact limits applicable for each route.

Additional Baggage Fees and Overweight Charges

Air Serbia allows passengers to add more baggage than the standard allowance by paying additional fees, which vary by route and method of purchase (online or at the airport). Passengers are encouraged to pre-purchase additional baggage online, as this typically results in lower fees compared to payments made at the airport. Here’s a detailed look at what to expect regarding Air Serbia baggage prices for extra and overweight luggage:

Additional Baggage Fees by Route

Air Serbia’s additional baggage fees are structured according to flight regions, categorized as domestic, regional (Europe and the Middle East), and long-haul destinations.

European and Middle Eastern Routes:

• Online Purchase: Passengers flying to or from Europe and the Middle East can pre-purchase an additional checked bag weighing up to 23 kg for a starting fee of €40 per piece.
• Airport Purchase: If purchased at the airport, this fee can increase to approximately €60 per piece, depending on the departure location.

Long-Haul Routes (e.g., flights to the U.S.):

• Online Purchase: For long-haul flights, passengers can add extra baggage for a starting fee of €60 per 23 kg piece if bought online.
• Airport Purchase: Airport fees for long-haul routes typically range from €80 to €100 per additional piece, based on flight specifics and destination.

This Air Serbia extra baggage price structure encourages passengers to book online, saving them on fees while also guaranteeing sufficient space for their extra luggage.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage Charges

When a bag exceeds the weight or size limits for standard checked baggage, Air Serbia overweight/oversized baggage allowance fees apply. These fees are based on the additional weight or dimensions that exceed Air Serbia’s standard requirements.

Economy Class Overweight Fees:

• Baggage between 23 kg and 32 kg incurs an additional fee of €60 on European and Middle Eastern routes when purchased online, with this amount increasing if handled at the airport.
• For long-haul flights, the overweight fee starts at €80 when paid online and may rise to €100 if paid at the airport.

Business Class Overweight Fees:

Business class passengers are permitted to carry bags up to 32 kg each as part of their standard allowance, so overweight fees are only applied if a bag exceeds this limit. In such cases, oversized or overweight fees are calculated based on the extent of the excess.

Oversized Baggage Fees:

Any checked bag with total dimensions exceeding 158 cm (length + width + height) is considered oversized and will be subject to a fee of approximately €80 on European routes and up to €100 on long-haul flights, based on the exact route and payment method. Fees are generally lower if oversized baggage is declared and paid for online.

Additional Fees for Special Items

Air Serbia also offers options for travelers with specific baggage needs, such as sports equipment, musical instruments, and more. Each type has its own fee structure, as detailed below:

Sports Equipment:

Items such as golf clubs, ski equipment, or bicycles are subject to special handling fees starting at €40 for short-haul flights within Europe and the Middle East, and around €60 for long-haul flights. Fees may vary depending on size and weight, and advance notification is recommended for these items to secure space.

Musical Instruments:

Small instruments (e.g., violins) that fit within carry-on size limits are allowed onboard, but larger instruments require additional purchase options, either as checked baggage or as a separate seat if brought into the cabin. For checked instruments, the Air Serbia baggage price starts at €60 and may go up depending on route and size.

Heavy or Bulky Equipment:

For items exceeding standard size or weight limits (over 32 kg), Air Serbia requires prior arrangement and applies special handling charges depending on the item type and flight route.

These fees cover the additional handling and care required for unique items and help ensure sufficient space in cargo.

Steps for Purchasing Additional or Overweight Baggage Online

Air Serbia offers a straightforward process for purchasing additional baggage, particularly beneficial when done online:

1. During Booking: Passengers can add extra baggage during the initial booking process to receive the best rates.
2. Manage Booking Section: If the booking is already complete, passengers can visit the “Manage My Booking” section on the Air Serbia website to add more baggage or manage current baggage options.
3. Airport Purchase: For last-minute changes, additional baggage may be purchased at the airport, though fees are generally higher than online prices.

Air Serbia Baggage Policy for Delayed, Lost, or Damaged Baggage

Air Serbia aims to handle passengers’ baggage with the utmost care. However, in cases of delayed, lost, or damaged luggage, Air Serbia has established clear policies and support processes to assist travelers. Here’s a breakdown of how Air Serbia’s delayed or lost baggage and Air Serbia’s damaged baggage policy are structured.

Policy for Delayed Baggage

Air Serbia makes every effort to ensure baggage arrives on time. However, in instances of delayed baggage, the airline advises passengers to follow these steps:

Immediate Reporting:

• Passengers should report any delayed baggage at the Baggage Service desk upon arrival or to the airline representative at the destination airport.
• Air Serbia staff will issue a Property Irregularity Report (PIR), which serves as the initial record of delayed baggage. This report includes a reference number that passengers can use to track the progress of their delayed baggage.

Tracking and Status Updates:

• Passengers can use Air Serbia’s online baggage tracking tool or contact customer service with their PIR number to check the current location and expected delivery time for their baggage.
• Air Serbia prioritizes returning delayed luggage as quickly as possible, typically within 24 to 48 hours for local and regional flights.

Compensation for Delayed Baggage:

• Air Serbia may offer compensation for passengers in cases where delayed baggage causes significant inconvenience, particularly for long-haul international flights.
• Reimbursement policies vary depending on the flight route and the duration of the delay, with specific compensation provided for essentials like clothing and personal items if baggage does not arrive within a set timeframe.

Policy for Lost Baggage

In the rare event that Air Serbia baggage cannot be located within a reasonable period, it may be declared lost. Here’s how Air Serbia handles such cases:

Declaration of Lost Baggage:

If baggage remains missing after 21 days, it is considered officially lost. At this stage, passengers are advised to contact Air Serbia’s Customer Service to proceed with a claim.

Compensation for Lost Baggage:

• Air Serbia offers compensation for lost baggage based on international standards, such as the Montreal Convention, which governs liability limits for lost items.
• Passengers will need to provide a detailed list of the contents of the lost baggage along with any supporting receipts. Air Serbia’s customer support team will then assess the claim, and reimbursement is typically processed once the claim has been reviewed and approved.

Additional Assistance:

For international flights, Air Serbia also offers assistance with interim expenses, providing financial support for immediate necessities while awaiting final resolution.

Air Serbia Damaged Baggage Policy

Air Serbia has a structured approach for handling baggage that is damaged in transit, with specific steps to follow and compensation available under certain circumstances.

Reporting Damaged Baggage:

• Passengers should report any Air Serbia damaged baggage to the airline’s representative or the Baggage Service desk at the arrival airport immediately upon discovering the damage.
• The airline will document the damage and provide a Damage Report, which serves as the record of the incident and includes a reference number for tracking.

Assessment and Repair:

• For minor damage, Air Serbia may arrange repairs at an approved service center, covering the costs associated with restoring the baggage.
• For more severe cases where repairs are not feasible, Air Serbia may offer replacement luggage or monetary compensation based on the level of damage and the age of the item.

Compensation and Liability:

• Compensation for damaged baggage is determined based on international conventions, with limits on liability as defined by the Montreal Convention.
• Air Serbia also clarifies that certain types of damage may not be eligible for compensation, such as wear and tear or superficial scuffs.

Filing a Claim for Delayed, Lost, or Damaged Baggage

Air Serbia has streamlined the claim process for delayed, lost, or damaged baggage, and passengers are encouraged to submit claims promptly to expedite resolution:

Required Documentation:

Passengers must submit a completed claim form, the Property Irregularity Report (PIR) or Damage Report, a copy of their boarding pass, and any receipts for interim expenses incurred due to delayed baggage.

Claim Submission Methods:

Claims can be submitted via Air Serbia’s website or at any Air Serbia airport counter. For delayed and damaged baggage, claims are generally accepted within 7 days from the date of the incident, while claims for lost baggage should be submitted within 21 days.

Resolution Timeline:

Air Serbia aims to resolve baggage claims within 4 to 6 weeks. This includes verifying the claim, determining compensation, and processing any payments if eligible. For international flights, resolutions may take slightly longer due to jurisdictional requirements.

Air Serbia Baggage Policy for Special Considerations: Unique or Large Items

For passengers traveling with items that require special handling, such as musical instruments, sports gear, mobility aids, and other sensitive or oversized belongings, Air Serbia has specific policies. These guidelines ensure that such items are transported safely and align with the airline’s regulations.

Musical Instruments

Air Serbia allows passengers to travel with musical instruments, but certain size and weight guidelines apply:

Carry-on Option:

Smaller instruments, such as violins or flutes, can be carried as Air Serbia carry-on baggage if they fit within the cabin baggage size limits (55 x 40 x 20 cm and up to 8 kg). Instruments that comply with Air Serbia hand luggage size can be stored in overhead bins.

Cabin Seat Option:

For larger instruments that exceed carry-on limits but are still within 135 cm and up to 32 kg, passengers may purchase an additional seat. This is ideal for delicate instruments that passengers prefer to keep in the cabin. Arrangements for a separate seat must be made in advance.

Checked Baggage Option:

Instruments exceeding cabin limits and requiring placement in the aircraft hold must be packed securely in a hard case. Extra charges may apply, depending on the item’s weight and dimensions.

Sports Equipment

Air Serbia allows passengers to transport sports equipment, such as golf clubs, skiing gear, and bicycles, under specific conditions:

Weight and Size Restrictions:

Sports equipment items that fall within the standard checked baggage allowance (up to 23 kg for Economy Standard and Economy Light or 32 kg for other classes) can be included without additional charges. However, certain items may incur a fee depending on their dimensions.

Packaging Requirements:

Air Serbia requires sports equipment to be packed securely in protective cases to prevent damage during transit. For instance, bicycles should be partially disassembled, with pedals removed and handlebars turned.

Additional Fees:

Equipment that exceeds standard weight or size limits will be subject to Air Serbia’s extra baggage price and may incur overweight/oversized baggage allowance fees.

Wheelchairs and Other Mobility Aids

For passengers with reduced mobility, Air Serbia offers complimentary transport for wheelchairs and other mobility aids.

Free Baggage for Mobility Aids:

Wheelchairs, walkers, and similar mobility aids are not counted as part of the standard baggage allowance. They can be transported free of charge as Free Baggage and do not incur extra fees.

Special Handling and Notification:

Passengers are encouraged to inform Air Serbia about mobility aid needs at least 48 hours before departure to arrange special handling.

Battery-operated Wheelchairs:

Air Serbia accommodates battery-powered wheelchairs following international safety guidelines. Dry-cell and gel-cell batteries are allowed, while spillable battery types have additional restrictions and should be coordinated in advance with the airline. 

Wheelchairs alongside other mobility devices having batteries may be transported under certain circumstances. The batteries have to be turned off. Moreover, the battery poles must be isolated to prevent any short circuit. Moreover, the batteries in the wheelchair have to belong to the battery types that don’t go through any leakage so that they may withhold pressure and vibrations without leakage. 

Weapons and Ammunition

Air Serbia allows the transport of weapons and ammunition under strict regulations, primarily for hunting or sporting purposes. Firearms, knives, blades, and daggers, won’t be permitted in the cabin as carry-on.  Ammunition and firearms will only go as cargo. However, rules for carrying dangerous goods have to be followed./ 

Advance Notification and Documentation:

Passengers must notify Air Serbia in advance and provide necessary permits and documentation for weapon transport. The airline advises contacting local authorities for further guidance on regulatory requirements.

Packing Guidelines:

Weapons should be packed in hard, lockable cases. Ammunition must be packed separately and follow specific weight limitations (usually up to 5 kg) as defined by international aviation standards.

Additional Charges:

An additional fee applies for weapons, categorized under Air Serbia Baggage Policy for special items. The charges vary depending on the weapon type, destination, and weight.

Transporting Urns

Air Serbia has a sensitive approach to transporting cremated remains, providing specific guidance to ensure compliance with regulations.

Carry-on Requirement:

Urns containing ashes must be carried in the cabin as hand luggage. They should comply with Air Serbia hand luggage size requirements and be screened by airport security.

Packing and Documentation:

Urns should be securely sealed and placed in non-metallic containers that permit X-ray screening. Passengers are also advised to carry death and cremation certificates for verification.

Additional Considerations:

Air Serbia advises passengers to confirm regulations with destination authorities, as some countries may have additional entry requirements for transporting remains.

Infant Baggage

Air Serbia provides a special allowance for passengers traveling with infants.

Baggage Allowance for Infants:

Passengers traveling with infants are allowed one additional piece of checked baggage (up to 23 kg), which applies to all fare classes.

Additional Items:

Items such as strollers and car seats can be checked for free. Strollers may also be taken to the gate and collected upon arrival.

Traveling with Pets 

Air Serbia permits passengers to travel with pets under specific conditions, whether in the cabin or the hold.

Pet in Cabin (PETC):

Small dogs and cats can travel in the cabin if they do not exceed 8 kg, including the carrier. The carrier dimensions should not exceed 48 x 30 x 20 cm. Pets are counted as special items and incur an additional fee based on the travel route.

Pet in Hold (AVIH):

Larger pets must travel in the hold, subject to weight and size restrictions. Air Serbia requires pet carriers to meet IATA standards, with secure closures and sufficient ventilation.

Documentation and Health Requirements:

Passengers must provide health certificates, vaccination records, and other required documentation for pet travel. Regulations may vary depending on the destination.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Air Serbia enforces stringent rules on items that passengers cannot carry onboard or in checked luggage due to safety and regulatory compliance. Understanding these limitations ensures smooth travel and adherence to international and airline-specific guidelines.

General Prohibited Items

Certain items are strictly prohibited from both Air Serbia carry-on baggage allowance and checked baggage due to safety concerns:

• Explosives: This includes dynamite, fireworks, and other explosive materials. Such items pose significant risk and are not allowed under any circumstances.
• Flammable Substances: Gasoline, lighter fuel, and similar highly flammable materials are prohibited. This restriction applies to both solid and liquid forms.
• Toxic Substances: Poison, pesticides, and other harmful chemicals cannot be transported as part of any baggage.
• Radioactive Materials: Any item emitting ionizing radiation, regardless of strength, is strictly prohibited onboard Air Serbia flights.

Passengers attempting to bring these items may face legal consequences, including fines and potential bans from future travel with Air Serbia.

Restricted Items in Carry-on Baggage

For safety, Air Serbia places specific restrictions on certain items in carry-on baggage:

Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs):

• Passengers are limited to carrying liquids, aerosols, and gels in containers of up to 100 ml each. These containers must fit within a single, clear, resealable plastic bag with a maximum volume of 1 liter.
• This restriction applies to cosmetics, toiletries, and other liquid products. Exceptions are made for essential medications and baby food but may require verification at security checkpoints.

Sharp Objects:

Objects like scissors, knives, and razor blades are not permitted in carry-on baggage but may be packed in checked baggage if they meet length and blade requirements. Air Serbia advises against transporting weapons or items that could be used as weapons.

Battery-powered Devices:

Certain batteries, such as lithium batteries above 100 watt-hours, are restricted from cabin transport. Devices powered by lithium-ion batteries below this capacity are allowed but must be turned off during flight and stored securely.

Restricted Items in Checked Baggage

Some items that are allowed in checked baggage have strict guidelines:

Spare Lithium Batteries:

Spare lithium batteries are not allowed in checked baggage due to fire risk. Passengers may bring spare batteries only in their carry-on baggage, securely protected against short circuits.

Flammable Items with Low Risk:

Items like small lighters or safety matches are limited to one per passenger and must remain on the person during flight. These items cannot be packed in checked baggage or carry-on bags due to fire hazard regulations.

Self-defense Sprays:

Self-defense sprays, such as pepper spray or mace, are not allowed in any baggage type due to the risk they pose to passengers and crew.

Compressed Gas Cylinders:

Small gas cartridges used for medical purposes or life vests are allowed in limited quantities. These require prior approval from Air Serbia and must meet all necessary packaging and certification requirements.

Weapons and Ammunition

Air Serbia allows the transportation of certain weapons and ammunition for passengers with appropriate permits, but specific regulations apply:

Firearms:

Firearms are allowed only in checked baggage and require prior approval from Air Serbia. Passengers must provide legal permits and notify the airline at least 48 hours before the flight. Firearms should be unloaded and stored in a hard case.

Ammunition:

Ammunition is restricted to a maximum of 5 kg and must be packed separately from firearms in sturdy containers. This weight limit applies to each passenger, and approval must be obtained before travel.

Medical and Personal Exceptions

Certain medical items may be permitted under restricted conditions:

Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs):

Passengers may bring portable oxygen concentrators onboard, but they must meet Air Serbia’s requirements and be approved in advance. Only FAA-approved POCs are allowed, and passengers must carry sufficient battery power for the entire journey.

Medications and Medical Equipment:

Essential medications, including liquid medications over 100 ml, may be brought in carry-on baggage with proper documentation. Insulin and syringes for diabetic passengers are permitted but should be clearly labeled and declared at security checkpoints.

Prohibited and Restricted Items for Pets

For those traveling with pets, Air Serbia has specific restrictions:

Pet Food and Supplements:

Passengers are permitted to carry a small quantity of pet food, but it must comply with the general liquid and food regulations if in carry-on baggage. Restricted items, such as canned pet food, must follow liquid limitations.

Pet Carriers:

Only soft-sided, airline-approved pet carriers are allowed in the cabin, and pets must remain in their carriers for the duration of the flight. Hard-sided carriers are permitted only in the aircraft hold under Air Serbia’s pet travel policies.

Additional Prohibited and Restricted Items for International Destinations

Certain international regulations impose further restrictions on items allowed in Air Serbia flights:

Cultural and Historical Artifacts:

Passengers traveling internationally are prohibited from carrying specific cultural artifacts or historical items, such as ancient relics, without special permission. Compliance with both origin and destination country regulations is required.

Agricultural Products and Animal Products:

Many destinations restrict or prohibit the import of plants, seeds, fruits, meats, and other agricultural products. Air Serbia advises passengers to review destination-specific restrictions to avoid confiscation.

Air Serbia Loyalty Program 

It offers Etihad Guest their loyalty program, which provides members with various perks and opportunities for earning, and redeeming miles. Here’s a detailed overview of the program and the advantages it offers.

Etihad Guest Program Overview

The Etihad Guest program is Air Serbia’s way of rewarding loyal travelers, and it includes four membership tiers, each with unique benefits. Members can earn miles on Air Serbia flights and with Etihad Airways and other partner airlines. The program also allows members to use their miles for flights, upgrades, extra baggage, and more.

Membership Tiers and Benefits

The Etihad Guest program has four main tiers:

Etihad Guest (Entry Level)

• Miles Accumulation: Members earn miles based on flight distance, fare class, and partner transactions.
• Redemption Options: Use miles for Air Serbia flights, Etihad Airways flights, and with partner airlines or hotels.
• Priority Check-in: Standard check-in process without priority privileges.

Etihad Guest Silver

• Enhanced Mileage Earnings: Earn bonus miles for every flight.
• Priority Check-in and Boarding: Silver members receive priority check-in and boarding services.
• Lounge Access: Access to select lounges on Air Serbia and Etihad flights.

Etihad Guest Gold

• Increased Mileage Bonus: Higher mileage accumulation for flights.
• Additional Baggage Allowance: Extra baggage allowance, depending on the destination and fare class.
• Priority Airport Services: Priority check-in, security, and boarding on Air Serbia and partner airlines.
• Lounge Access: Access to premium lounges worldwide with one guest allowed.

Etihad Guest Platinum

• Highest Mileage Bonuses: Maximum miles accumulation across flights.
• Exclusive Airport Services: Priority across check-in, security, and boarding.
• Increased Free Baggage Allowance: Complimentary additional baggage.
• VIP Lounge Access: Access to VIP lounges with one guest, regardless of cabin class.

Earning and Redeeming Miles

Members earn miles on all eligible Air Serbia and partner flights. They can also earn through non-airline partners like hotels, car rentals, and retail partners. Here’s a look at how earning and redeeming work:

Earning Miles

Miles are earned based on distance traveled, fare class, and tier level. Partner airlines also allow members to earn miles on select flights.

Redeeming Miles

Miles can be redeemed for:

• Air Serbia and partner flights.
• Cabin upgrades.
• Extra baggage allowance.
• Shopping at Etihad Guest Reward Shop.

Conclusion 

The Air Serbia Baggage Policy is comprehensive and designed to address the diverse needs of travelers by offering clear allowances for carry-on and checked baggage, policies for oversized or extra items, and guidelines for special items. Passengers are advised to check specific details related to their destination and fare class on the Air Serbia official website for the most accurate information.’

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Frequently Asked Questions