Baggage allowance
There are restrictions on quantum of baggage that can be taken by a traveler on multi passenger transport systems such as passenger trains, cross country buses, ships and airplanes. Travelers rarely carry more baggage than what is allowed on the trains, ships, or buses. However, the space for baggage is considerably limited on aircrafts. Therefore, baggage allowance becomes a major consideration for choosing airlines.
How much baggage is a passenger allowed on aircrafts ?
Different airlines ply different types of aircrafts on different routes. The size and other specifications of aircraft are decided based on destination, and demand. baggage allowance per passenger is, therefore, dependent on the specific aircraft being used.
baggage allowance on international flights has to be in accordance with the guidelines issued by IATA.
There are two ways of calculating baggage allowance. One is by weight, and the other is by dimensions.
baggage allowance under weight system is again different for different classes, and ages of passengers. Therefore, an international passenger traveling in Business Class may be allowed to take 30 Kgs. on the flight. However, children traveling in same class may be entitled to only 10 kgs. of baggage allowance.
International passengers traveling in economy class may be allowed to take 20 kgs. of baggage on flight. This limit is reduced to 10 kgs. in case of young children.
The system of calculating baggage allowance, based on pieces or dimensions, is more common on flights to America or Canada. There are also other destinations, where such system is prevalent.
The allowances can be understood more clearly by considering the example of an international passenger traveling to America.
If the passenger travels in executive class, then he may carry two pieces under the piece system. There are, however, weight and dimension restrictions on these pieces. The maximum weight of each piece should not exceed 32 kgs and the sum total of length, breadth and height of each piece should not exceed 158 cms. or 62 inches.
For the economy class traveler, the weight comes down to 23 kgs. The limit on dimensions is also slightly different. Though the sum of length, breadth, and height of each piece is constant at 158 cms. , the maximum of such dimension totals allowed for economy class passengers is 270 cms. This stipulation has the effect of reducing the size of the second piece.
Unlike in purely weight system, infant passengers are also entitled to some baggage allowance under piece system. The baggage allowance for infants is 1 bag, with dimensions, the sum total of which should not exceed 115 cms or 45 inches. This allowance for infants is valid for both executive and economy class passengers.
In addition to the above, infants carry basket, perambulators, etc. , are also allowed.
Some special baggage, such as sleeping bags, bicycles, golf clubs, etc. , is also considered under piece system, even though they do not conform to the required dimensions.
Apart from the above mentioned baggage allowance , each passenger is entitled to take a handbag inside the passenger cabin. There are no specific restrictions on the weight of this baggage. However, there is no porter arrangement to carry the bag on board. Therefore, the traveler should be able to carry it up the stairs of the airplane.
There are restrictions on contents of this handbag. Passengers are not allowed to carry any sharp instruments, pastes, gels, and similar materials in this baggage.
There are a few other items, such as ladies handbag, overcoat, umbrella, etc. , which are also allowed provided they are personal belongings, i.e. , not being carried in bulk for any sale.
All the above items collectively constitute free baggage allowance for an international traveler.
The cost of transporting this quantum of baggage is included in the air ticket. However, if the passenger is desirous of taking some more luggages, he or she may do so by paying for excess baggage. The charges of the excess baggage vary from airlines to airlines.
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