British Airways Reduces Size of Checked-In Baggage

British Airways has reduced the limits for free checked-in baggage, changed the rates for additional baggage as well as reduced the dimensions of hand-luggage for almost all of its flights. The revised rules will be applied for flights on and after 11^th August 2015, specific to the category of flexible Y class tickets (economy class).

For passengers who will have purchased their tickets prior to 11^th August, even if their travels are after 11^th of August, they will be dealt with the previous free baggage limit of 2 bags weighing 23 kg apiece. These passengers will need to bring the receipt of their original e-ticket as proof to be shown at the airport prior to boarding.

The new checked-in baggage allowance has been reduced to 23 kg of one piece baggage for World Traveller Class. The dimensions of the hand carried laptop bag or handbag is being reduced to 16 inches x 12 inches x 6 inches.

The decision has been made in light of IATA’s (International Air Transport Association) initiative of shrinking the standard baggage limitations across major international air carriers, which include Lufthansa and Emirates.

British Airways, in its official statement, claims that passengers were consistently observed to bring in excess hand carried baggage, which would cause an increase in overall boarding time, risking delays in flights. Luggage rates for checked-in baggage have also been increased, with the airline stating an increase in transportation, handling and airport transfer fees.

Excess checked-in baggage rates vary among the airports of London. Concerning World Traveller and Euro Traveller classes, the rates for excess checked in baggage are the same for London Gatwick. For London Heathrow and London City Airport, £60 will be charged for excess baggage for both international and domestic flights, (£65 if paid at the airport). It was previously £55 for international and £40 for domestic flights. Additional bags other than the second bag would then be charged £120-140.

When it comes to hand-carried luggage category, a checked in bag could cost £20-40. Passenger classes apart from First and Business class (club world) will require getting yellow tags for all their hand-luggage in order to ensure they can get cleared to take them along for boarding.

The airline has clarified that for busier routes, the staff may request passengers to get their hand carried luggage checked to be transferred to the hold. The revised policy is being implemented for all flight networks of British Airways, with the exception of one particular route; direct flights to Brazil.