If you’re planning to travel by air, there’s an important change to the luggage policy that you should be aware of. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has updated the rules regarding hand luggage, and now passengers are only allowed to bring one handbag or cabin bag on board. This applies to both domestic and international flights, so if you’re not prepared, you could face delays at the airport.
What’s Changed in the Handbag Policy?
The major update is that passengers can now carry only one hand bag in the cabin. All other luggage must be checked in at the airport. This policy affects everyone traveling by air, whether you’re flying domestically or internationally.
What Are the New Baggage Guidelines for Popular Airlines?
Air India Baggage Rules
- Economy & Premium Economy: One hand bag up to 7 kg (dimensions not exceeding 115 cm).
- First & Business Class: One hand bag up to 10 kg.
- In addition to the cabin bag, you can also carry a laptop bag or lady’s purse (up to 3 kg), but it must fit under the seat.
- Any luggage that exceeds the size or weight limit will incur an additional charge.
- Tickets issued before May 2, 2024, will follow the old rules.
IndiGo Airlines Handbag Rules
- Passengers can carry one cabin bag weighing up to 7 kg with dimensions not exceeding 115 cm.
- You can also bring a laptop bag or lady’s purse (weighing no more than 3 kg).
- If your luggage exceeds these limits, expect to pay an extra charge.
IndiGo Check-in Baggage Rules
- Domestic flights: Passengers can check in up to 15 kg of baggage.
- International flights: The check-in limit varies between 20-30 kg per passenger depending on the destination.
Why Were the Rules Changed?
The BCAS revised the handbag policy to manage the growing number of passengers and reduce congestion at airports. In November 2024, air travel reached record numbers, which increased pressure on security and boarding processes. The new rules aim to speed up security checks and improve the overall passenger experience.
What Was the Previous Weight Limit?
Before the changes, the baggage weight limit for hand luggage ranged from 8 kg (Economy) to 12 kg (First/Business Class). Now, the maximum weight for hand luggage is 7-10 kg, depending on your class of travel.
Key Takeaways
- One handbag per passenger: This applies to both domestic and international flights.
- If you carry more than one bag, you’ll need to check in the extra bag.
- Economy & Premium Economy passengers: Maximum of 7 kg for the cabin bag.
- First & Business Class passengers: Maximum of 10 kg for the cabin bag.
- Airline-specific exceptions: For flights booked before May 2, 2024, you may be allowed to carry a heavier bag based on the previous rules.
- Security checks: The new policy aims to reduce wait times and ease congestion at security points.
Now that you’re informed about the new hand baggage policy, make sure to pack smart and avoid any surprises at the airport! Safe travels!
