New Air Travel Rule: Only One Handbag Allowed, Max 7 kg

Air travelers will have to be more careful with their hand baggage, once the New Year sets in. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has announced stricter hand baggage regulations, according to which each passenger will be allowed to carry only one bag or handbag, weighing up to 7 kg.

The change in rules has been initiated to enhance the security and also streamline airport operations. All the additional luggage, apart from the permitted one bag, must be checked in.

The maximum allowable size for cabin bags is 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm, which would be followed by all the airlines to simplify the security screening in the plane. If the cabin bag exceeds the specified size or weight, excess baggage fees will apply.

However, there is exemption for pre-purchased tickets. All the tickets issued before May 2, 2024, will follow the old baggage policy — economy 8 kg, premium economy 10 kg, first/business 12 kg. At the same time, reissued or rescheduled tickets will have to stick to the new weight limit.

According to information, IndiGo and Air India have already updated their baggage policies to align with the new norms. The changes are likely to enhance the efficiency of airport operations, reduce overcrowding at the security checkpoints, and provide a seamless travel experience to the passengers.

It is suggested that passengers double-check their cabin bag’s size and weight before heading to the airport, to match with the latest changes announced by the authorities. This would avoid last-minute anxiety and worry.