Air India International Baggage Allowance: Your Complete Guide for Smooth Travel

Air India International Baggage Allowance: What You Need to Know Before You Fly

Flying internationally with Air India? It’s essential to understand the baggage allowance rules to avoid unexpected fees and ensure smooth boarding. Whether you’re traveling in Economy, Business, or First Class, Air India offers generous baggage allowances for both checked and cabin luggage. This guide breaks down the baggage policies, excess baggage charges, and tips for hassle-free travel.

Free Checked Baggage Allowance on International Flights

The amount of free checked baggage allowed depends on your route and class of service. Below is a breakdown of the typical baggage allowances for Air India international flights:

Economy Class

• Weight Concept (Most International Routes):

  • 30 kg for most destinations (e.g., Europe, Asia, Australia).

  • 23 kg per piece for flights to/from the USA and Canada (two pieces allowed).

Business Class

• Weight Concept:

  • 40 kg for most destinations.

  • 32 kg per piece for flights to/from the USA and Canada (two pieces allowed).

First Class

• Weight Concept:

  • 50 kg for most destinations.

  • 32 kg per piece for flights to/from the USA and Canada (two pieces allowed).

Class	General Baggage Allowance (Weight)	Flights to/from USA & Canada (Piece Concept)
Economy Class	30 kg	2 pieces (23 kg each)
Business Class	40 kg	2 pieces (32 kg each)
First Class	50 kg	2 pieces (32 kg each)

Infants

• International Flights: Infants are generally allowed 10 kg of checked baggage, along with one foldable stroller or infant car seat.

Important Notes:

• Weight Concept is used for most routes excluding the USA and Canada, where the Piece Concept applies.

• Each piece of checked baggage should not exceed 32 kg due to safety regulations, even if your allowance permits a higher weight.

Cabin Baggage Allowance (Hand Luggage)

In addition to checked baggage, passengers are allowed to bring cabin luggage:

Economy Class

• 1 cabin bag with a maximum weight of 8 kg.

Business and First Class

• 1 cabin bag with a maximum weight of 12 kg.

Dimensions for Cabin Bags:

The dimensions for cabin baggage must not exceed 55 cm x 35 cm x 25 cm (or 115 cm in total).

Additionally, passengers can carry a personal item such as:

• A laptop bag

• Handbag

• Small duty-free items

Class	Cabin Baggage Allowance
Economy Class	1 bag (max 8 kg)
Business Class	1 bag (max 12 kg)
First Class	1 bag (max 12 kg)

Excess Baggage Fees for International Flights

If your baggage exceeds the free allowance, you will be charged an excess baggage fee. These fees depend on the route and the weight or piece system in place for your specific flight.

For Flights to the USA/Canada (Piece Concept):

• Extra Piece: A charge applies for each additional piece of checked baggage.

• Overweight Baggage: If a piece exceeds the standard weight limit of 23 kg (for Economy) or 32 kg (for Business/First), an overweight fee applies.

For Other International Flights (Weight Concept):

• Excess Baggage Charges: Fees are calculated based on the weight exceeding the allowed limit and vary by route.

Example:

• Europe/Asia Routes: Approximately $10 to $12 per kg of excess baggage, depending on the destination.

Special Baggage Items

Certain items, such as sports equipment (e.g., golf clubs, skis), musical instruments, or medical equipment, can be carried under specific rules, often as part of your standard baggage allowance. Larger items may incur additional charges, depending on size and weight.

• Sports Equipment: Generally considered part of checked baggage if within the allowance.

• Musical Instruments: May be carried as part of cabin baggage if they fit within the size and weight limits or as checked baggage.

Tips to Avoid Baggage Fees

1. Check Your Allowance Before Booking: Different routes and classes have varying allowances, so check the specific baggage rules for your flight.

2. Pre-Purchase Extra Baggage: Air India often offers discounts for pre-purchasing additional baggage online rather than paying excess fees at the airport.

3. Weigh Your Bags at Home: Make sure your bags meet the weight requirements to avoid paying overweight fees at the airport.

4. Use Cabin Space Wisely: Ensure your cabin bag is within the size and weight limits, and carry your personal item to maximize the free space allowed.

FAQs About Air India International Baggage Allowance

1. Can I carry more than two checked bags to the USA?Yes, but additional charges will apply for any extra pieces beyond the standard two-bag allowance.

2. What is the maximum weight allowed for a single piece of checked baggage?The maximum weight for a single piece of checked baggage is 32 kg, regardless of class, for safety reasons.

3. Is cabin baggage checked for weight?Yes, Air India may check the weight of your cabin baggage at the airport, especially if the flight is full.

4. What happens if my baggage exceeds the weight limit?You will be charged an excess baggage fee, either by weight (for non-USA routes) or per extra piece (for USA and Canada).

Conclusion: Pack Smart with Air India’s Baggage Allowance Rules

Understanding Air India's international baggage allowance ensures that you pack efficiently and avoid unnecessary fees. Always check your specific flight's baggage rules before departure, and consider pre-booking additional baggage if needed. With generous allowances across Economy, Business, and First Class, Air India makes it easy for you to bring everything you need for your journey.