Kuwait Airways Baggage Policy

Understanding the Kuwait Airways Baggage Policy can save travelers time and money, helping them avoid unexpected fees or restrictions at the airport. Kuwait Airways offers flexible baggage allowances and specific policies for different classes, international routes, and types of baggage. In this guide, we’ll cover the key points of Kuwait Airways’ baggage policies, including free baggage, carry-on rules, excess fees, special items, and procedures for tracing lost or delayed baggage.

Baggage Allowance Overview 

Kuwait Airways provides a variety of baggage options to suit the needs of travelers. The baggage allowance differs by travel class, route, and fare type.

Free Checked Baggage Allowance by Class

Kuwait Airways has distinct baggage allowances for different cabin classes:

Economy Class

Passengers are generally allowed two checked baggage pieces that shouldn’t exceed 23 kg per piece. This fee is applicable for all fare classes. 

Business Class

Business travelers are permitted two checked bags with a weight of 32 kg per baggage. On U.S. and Canada routes, each of the two bags can weigh up to 32 kg.

First Class

Passengers in first class are allowed three checked bags with a maximum weight of 32 kg each on most routes. 

Royal Class Passengers are allowed a baggage allowance of three bags weighing 32 kg per piece. 

If you are an Oasis Club Member, in such cases you’ll be entitled to extra baggage allowance.

• Platinum Members are allowed one extra baggage piece weighing 32 kg if they are in the Royal, Business, or First Class. Economy class passengers are allowed one piece of luggage weighing 32b kg. They may alternatively get a 9 kg waiver/ piece for a maximum of two baggage pieces.
• Gold Members in the Economy Class are given the same provision as Platinum Members in the Economy Class. Business, First, and Royal Members, get an extra 23 kg baggage allowance for free.
• Silver Members in the Royal, Economy, or Business class are permitted an extra baggage allowance of 23 kg. 

Free Carry-on Allowance

Kuwait Airways also offers generous carry-on allowances based on travel class:

• Economy Class: One carry-on bag up to 7 kg.
• Business Class: One carry-on up to 11 kg
• First Class: One carry-on not weighing more than 11 kg
• Royal Class: One handbag shouldn’t be more than 11 kg

All carry-on items must meet the maximum dimensions of 56 cm x 46 cm x 25 cm, ensuring they fit in overhead compartments or under the seat.

Besides the hand baggage, passengers are allowed to carry one personal item like a handbag, or briefcase, or coat, or cape, or umbrella, or a small camera, or a pair of crutches. Kuwait Airways passengers traveling to the USA, and UK should carry electronics in their hand baggage.

Now let’s take a look at the checked baggage dimensions as per the travel classes. 

• For Royal and First class passengers, the maximum dimension allowed is 250 cm or 98 inches.
• Business and Economy class passengers allow 158 cm or 62 inches dimension at the maximum.

Anything more than the above-mentioned weight will be chargeable for an excess baggage fee. 

Excess and Prepaid Baggage

Passengers needing additional baggage allowances can purchase extra baggage online at a reduced rate compared to airport fees. Prepaid baggage allowances vary based on the route and destination, allowing flexibility for those who exceed the standard allowances. Below is a guide on how passengers can buy extra baggage and save on fees:

Understanding Excess Baggage Fees 

Excess baggage fees are applied when passengers exceed the standard baggage limit included in their ticket. For those wondering about Kuwait Airways’ extra baggage fee per kg, the charge depends on the destination and travel class. The cost is calculated based on:

Route or Destination

International destinations often have higher rates than regional routes.

Weight and Size of Extra Bags

Economy Class generally allows 23kg per piece, while Business and First Class permit up to 32kg per piece. Exceeding these limits results in additional charges.

Zone-Based Segments

Charges may differ if the journey involves flights to multiple zones (e.g., connecting through various continents).

Kuwait Airways Baggage Policy Prepaid Baggage Option: Discounts and Convenience

Kuwait Airways baggage policy offers passengers the option to pre-purchase excess baggage online before their flight, allowing them to save on excess baggage costs at the airport. The prepaid option is available via the Kuwait Airways website, and typically offers a reduced rate for extra luggage. Here’s how to use the prepaid baggage option:

Step 1: Log in to the Kuwait Airways Website

Start by accessing the Kuwait Airlines’s official website and logging into your booking account.

Step 2: Go to “Manage Booking”

Select your booking reference and navigate to the “Manage Booking” section.

Step 3: Choose “Add Baggage”

Under this section, you’ll find options to add extra baggage based on your route and class.

Step 4: Review Costs and Make Payment

Review the cost per kg or per additional piece, depending on your needs, and complete payment to secure the prepaid baggage.

Pre-purchasing is highly recommended for travelers who are certain they will exceed the included baggage allowance, as it typically results in a lower fee compared to purchasing excess baggage at the airport​

Specific Steps to Buy Extra Baggage

The steps for purchasing additional baggage are straightforward:

• Access your booking via the Kuwait Airways website.
• Check the available baggage allowance for your ticket class (Economy, Business, or First).
• Select additional baggage options, either by kg or by piece, based on your travel needs.
• Proceed to payment and confirm. A receipt and confirmation will be provided, ensuring your extra baggage is added to your booking.

This online service is especially beneficial for passengers flying long-distance, as it allows for greater flexibility in managing their luggage needs.

For precise details, passengers are encouraged to refer to the official Kuwait Airways excess baggage rates page or manage their baggage needs through the airline’s prepaid baggage portal.

Free Baggage Allowance: Checked and Carry-On Bags

Checked Baggage Rules

Most passengers on international routes are allowed free checked baggage. Kuwait Airways follows a 2PC baggage allowance policy on several routes, meaning passengers may bring two pieces of checked baggage.  This policy typically allows two checked bags, each up to 23 kg for Economy, though this limit can vary with other classes and destinations. Ensure you verify the policy details for your specific route on Kuwait Airways’ website.

Carry-On Baggage: Cabin/Hand Luggage

The free carry-on allowance, also known as cabin or hand luggage, allows passengers to bring a personal item on board in addition to their checked bags. The Kuwait Airways Baggage Policy usually permits one carry-on bag with a maximum weight of 7 kg in Economy Class, and a larger carry-on for Business and First Class. Make sure your carry-on meets the specific size limits set by Kuwait Airways to ensure smooth boarding.

Special Considerations

Kuwait Airways provides special baggage allowances and considerations for various items like sports equipment, musical instruments, medical equipment, baggage for infants, and pets. These specific categories allow passengers to bring necessary or valuable items within the airline’s regulations, subject to size, weight, and sometimes additional fees. Here’s a detailed guide on each category:

Sports Equipment

Passengers traveling with Kuwait Airways can bring a range of sports equipment, with specific guidelines based on the type and size of the items. Common categories include:

• Golf Clubs
• Bicycles
• Diving Equipment (air cylinders must be empty)
• Skis and Snowboards
• Fishing Gear (rods, reels, and tackle box)
• Surfboards
• Hockey Equipment
• Tennis or Squash Equipment

Most sports equipment must not exceed specific weight and dimension limits. Extra fees may apply if the sports equipment exceeds the free baggage allowance or if it is classified as oversized​.

Musical Instruments

Musical instruments are allowed onboard with Kuwait Airways, but they must fit within certain size and weight limits. Smaller instruments (e.g., violins, flutes, or clarinets) may be accepted as carry-on baggage if they fit within the cabin baggage allowance. For larger instruments, passengers can choose to purchase an additional seat if they wish to keep the instrument in the cabin. Instruments exceeding the allowed dimensions or weight may be checked as baggage, with applicable fees if they exceed the free allowance.

Infant Baggage

Kuwait Airways allows additional baggage for infants (usually under two years old), which includes a separate allowance specifically for infant needs:

• 1 Piece of Checked Baggage (specific weight may vary based on route and fare class) not exceeding a weight of 10 kg and a dimension of 115 cm or 45 inches. 
• Stroller or Pushchair: Infants are permitted to bring a stroller or pushchair at no additional cost.
• Car Seats: Can be brought onboard or checked, depending on space availability and regulations.

Parents should verify the exact allowances and guidelines when booking, as limits may vary based on fare class and destination.

Traveling with Pets

Kuwait Airways allows passengers to travel with pets under specific conditions. Pets can travel as checked baggage or as cargo, subject to prior approval from the airline. Key points include:

• Pets in Cabin: Only specific small pets, such as certain breeds of cats and dogs, are allowed in the cabin under strict size and weight guidelines.
• Checked Pets: Larger pets are usually transported in the cargo hold in airline-approved carriers, and extra charges are incurred for them. 
• Documentation: Health certificates, vaccination records, and possibly an import/export license may be required.
• Fees: Travelling with pets typically incurs extra fees, which depend on the pet’s weight and destination.

For full guidelines and the exact fees, Kuwait Airways recommends checking the pet travel policies on their official website.

Oversized and overweight Baggage Policy 

Kuwait Airways has specific guidelines for handling oversized and overweight baggage, ensuring that passengers understand the limitations and associated fees. These guidelines are crucial for ensuring a smooth check-in process and managing any extra charges for larger items. 

Oversized Baggage Policy

Oversized baggage means the luggage exceeding the standard size limits set by Kuwait Airways. Each class (Economy, Business, and First Class) has specific size limits for both checked-in luggage and cabin baggage. When baggage exceeds these limits, passengers must pay additional fees, and certain items may need to be repacked or placed in special containers.

Standard Size Limits

For checked baggage, the maximum size is typically 158 cm (62 inches), which is the sum of the bag’s length, width, and height.

Oversized Fees 

If your checked baggage exceeds this size, it is considered oversized, and extra charges will apply. The cost of oversized baggage depends on the route and weight of the item.

Special Items

Oversized items like skis, bicycles, and surfboards may require advance booking and specific handling, including additional fees.

Overweight Baggage Policy

Your baggage is overweight when it exceeds the standard weight limit specified by the limit. Each class allows a specific weight per piece, with excess weight incurring additional charges.

Weight Limits:

• Economy Class: Generally allows up to 23 kg (50 lbs) per checked baggage piece; they mostly allow two pieces of baggage
• Business Class: Allows up to 32 kg (70 lbs) per checked baggage piece; you’ll be permitted to carry two baggage. 
• First Class: Allows up to 32 kg (70 lbs) per checked baggage piece, similar to Business Class​; you may carry up to three baggage 
• Royal Class: Allows a maximum of 32 kg (70 lbs) per checked baggage piece; you are allowed to carry a maximum of three pieces of baggage.

Excess Weight Fees

If your checked baggage exceeds the weight limit for your class, you will be charged an excess baggage fee based on the additional weight. Charges for excess baggage vary by destination and route.

Handling of Overweight Bags

Overweight baggage, especially items exceeding 32 kg, may be required to be repacked into smaller pieces or shipped as cargo.

How to Handle Oversized and Overweight Baggage

To avoid confusion at the airport, Kuwait Airways recommends that passengers take proactive steps to ensure their baggage meets the baggage allowance guidelines:

Check Weight and Size in Advance

Use the Kuwait Airways website or contact the customer service team to confirm your baggage allowance based on your ticket class and destination.

Pre-Purchase Excess Baggage

Kuwait Airways offers a prepaid excess baggage service, where you can purchase an extra weight allowance in advance for a discounted rate​. This can be done via the official Kuwait Airways website.

Special Handling for Large Items

For oversized items like sports equipment or musical instruments, ensure that these are declared at the time of booking or check-in to avoid delays. Special baggage handling may be needed for such items, especially if they exceed the standard baggage size.

The excess baggage rates for oversized and overweight baggage are calculated based on several factors such as weight, size, and the specific route of travel. These rates can vary, so it’s essential to check the latest charges on the Kuwait Airways official website to ensure accuracy.

Restricted and Dangerous Goods 

Kuwait Airways has specific regulations regarding restricted and dangerous goods in accordance with international safety standards, aiming to ensure passenger safety. Below is a detailed outline of restricted and dangerous items based on the guidelines provided by Kuwait Airways.

Definition of Dangerous Goods

Dangerous goods include items and substances that pose risks to health, safety, property, or the environment if transported by air. These items are typically prohibited from both checked and cabin baggage. Kuwait Airways adheres to the guidelines set by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which establish international standards for transporting hazardous materials.

List of Restricted and Prohibited Items

The following items are generally prohibited or restricted on Kuwait Airways flights, as per the guidelines available on the airline’s official site:

• Flammable Items: This category includes gasoline, lighter fluid, and matches, as well as fireworks and flares.
• Explosives and Firearms: Firearms, ammunition, and explosives are prohibited unless prior permission has been obtained and the items are packaged according to airline standards. Note that approval is subject to strict regulatory controls.
• Compressed Gases: Items such as butane, oxygen, and other non-flammable or flammable gas cylinders are not allowed in checked or carry-on baggage. Medical oxygen cylinders may be permitted, but they require prior approval.
• Corrosive Substances: Acids, alkalis, mercury, and other corrosive substances are banned from passenger baggage due to their hazardous nature.
• Toxic and Infectious Substances: This includes pesticides, infected blood samples, and biological products that may pose health risks.
• Radioactive Materials: Radioactive items and devices, such as certain industrial or medical equipment, are strictly prohibited.

Allowances for Personal Items with Restrictions

Certain items that may otherwise be considered dangerous goods are permitted in limited quantities if intended for personal use. These include:

Medicines and Toiletries

Some small quantities of medicines, aerosols, and toiletries (e.g., perfumes, colognes) are permitted. Aerosol containers for personal care or toiletries must be no more than 0.5 kg or 0.5 liters per item, with a total limit of 2 kg or 2 liters.

Electronic Devices with Lithium Batteries

Passengers are allowed to carry personal electronic devices such as laptops, mobile phones, and cameras, but lithium batteries must meet specific size and packaging requirements. Spare batteries must be carried in carry-on baggage only and individually protected to prevent short-circuiting.​

Special Considerations for Medical and Assistive Devices

Medical devices, such as portable oxygen concentrators (POCs) or other necessary medical equipment, may be allowed onboard. However, passengers are required to notify Kuwait Airways in advance and may need to provide medical documentation. Kuwait Airways has additional guidelines for such items to ensure compliance with safety standards and to accommodate passengers with medical needs.

Declaration and Approval Process

Passengers carrying items that may be classified as restricted or dangerous goods must declare these items at check-in or notify Kuwait Airways customer service ahead of their travel date. Items not properly declared or packaged may be denied transport. Additionally:

Approval Requirements

Some items, like medical oxygen, may need pre-approval from the airline.

Packaging and Labeling

Dangerous goods must be packaged and labeled in compliance with IATA and ICAO standards to reduce the risk of accidents during transit.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Kuwait Airways strictly enforces these restrictions, and passengers found carrying undeclared dangerous goods could face penalties, including fines or confiscation of the items. In some cases, there could also be legal consequences depending on the severity of the violation.

Tracing and Lost Baggage

In the rare event that baggage is lost or delayed, Kuwait Airways offers a tracking service to help passengers locate their belongings. Passengers can report lost baggage at the airport’s baggage service desk, where they will receive a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) number. This reference number allows passengers to track the status of their baggage online through Kuwait Airways’ baggage tracing system.

Kuwait Airways is committed to resolving baggage issues promptly, and they offer compensation according to international aviation regulations if baggage is lost or significantly delayed. However, it’s advisable to keep essential items in your carry-on to minimize inconvenience in case of baggage delays.

EU Biosecurity Rules for Travelers to Europe

Travelers flying to Europe should be aware of EU biosecurity regulations, which apply to certain items such as fresh produce, meat, and other agricultural products. These items are restricted due to concerns about pest introduction and contamination. Before packing food items or plants, check the EU biosecurity guidelines on Kuwait Airways’ website to ensure compliance and avoid issues during customs inspections.

Kuwait Airways’ Membership Benefits in Terms of Baggage Policy

For frequent flyers and loyalty program members, Kuwait Airways offers additional baggage perks. Members of the Oasis Club, Kuwait Airways’ loyalty program, may enjoy added benefits like extra baggage allowance or discounted rates on excess baggage fees as already mentioned above. 

Loyalty benefits vary based on membership tier (Silver, Gold, or Platinum), with higher tiers typically offering more generous baggage privileges. This can be especially beneficial for travelers who frequently fly on international routes and require additional luggage space.

Conclusion 

Being familiar with the Kuwait Airways Baggage Policy can help travelers plan and pack more effectively, reducing stress and avoiding surprise fees at the airport. From free baggage allowances for various classes to policies for special items and pets, Kuwait Airways accommodates a wide range of passenger needs. By preparing in advance, considering prepaid baggage options, and understanding tracing procedures, passengers can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free travel experience with Kuwait Airways.

Whether you’re traveling for leisure or business, knowing Kuwait Airways’ baggage policies will ensure your journey begins on the right note, letting you focus on your destination rather than the details of your luggage.

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