India’s new cabin baggage rules: 1 bag limit for all flights
Exemptions for pre-May 2024 bookings allow heavier baggage limits
In a significant move to streamline air travel, the Indian government has introduced stricter cabin baggage regulations for all domestic and international flights operated by Indian airlines.
The updated rules, announced by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), aim to enhance security and improve efficiency at airports amid rising air traffic.
One bag rule
The new regulations mandate that passengers can carry only one piece of hand luggage, which must not exceed a weight of 7kg for economy and premium economy class passengers.
For business and first-class travellers, the weight limit is 10kg. Any additional baggage must be checked in. This policy applies to both domestic and international flights, and airlines are expected to adhere strictly to these guidelines.
Alongside the weight restrictions, the Indian authorities have specified clear dimensions for carry-on luggage. The maximum height for cabin bags is set at 55 cm (21.6 inches), with a length of 40 cm (15.7 inches) and a width of 20 cm (7.8 inches). These dimensions aim to ensure that cabin baggage fits comfortably in overhead compartments, reducing the need for rechecking luggage at security points.
Exemptions for early bookings
Passengers who booked their tickets before May 4, 2024, will be exempted from the new restrictions on weight. These passengers will still be allowed to carry slightly heavier luggage, with an 8kg limit for economy class, 10kg for premium economy, and up to 12kg for business and first class. This exemption aims to accommodate those who made travel plans before the announcement of the new rules.
Security and efficiency
One of the primary reasons for these revised baggage limits is the growing congestion at Indian airports. With a surge in passenger numbers, particularly during peak travel periods, security checks have become increasingly time-consuming. By limiting the number of carry-on items, the authorities aim to speed up the screening process and reduce delays at security checkpoints.
The authorities hope that these changes will ensure smoother operations and enhance overall passenger experience.
Impact on passengers
While the new rules are expected to have a minimal impact on regular travellers, many airlines had already implemented similar baggage policies prior to the announcement. For instance, major carriers such as Air India and IndiGo had been following the one-bag policy for some time, with limits on size and weight aligning closely with the new guidelines. However, passengers who are used to carrying multiple bags or exceeding the weight limits may need to adjust their packing strategies to avoid additional charges.
Air India, one of India’s flagship carriers, has already aligned its baggage policy with the new regulations. Economy class passengers are allowed to carry a 7kg cabin bag, while business class passengers can bring a 10kg bag on board.
IndiGo, the largest low-cost carrier in India, has similarly updated its rules, permitting one cabin bag (max. 7kg and 115cm in combined dimensions) and a small personal item like a purse or laptop bag, up to 3kg.
These carriers, along with others, have emphasised the need for passengers to familiarise themselves with the new rules ahead of their travels.
The new baggage restrictions come as Indian aviation experiences a sharp growth in passenger numbers. In November 2023, Indian airlines recorded a 12% year-on-year increase in domestic air travel, with 14.2 million passengers flying on domestic routes.