According to the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, passengers are now allowed to carry only one hand or cabin bag inside the aircraft. Any additional baggage should be checked in
If one is planning to travel by air, they should familiarise themselves with the new hand baggage policy by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) before heading to the airport. Being unaware of these rules could lead to avoidable complications upon arrival.
Due to the increasing number of passengers at pre-embarkation security checkpoints, BCAS and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), responsible for airport security, have tightened regulations concerning the new hand baggage policy. This stricter approach by BCAS and CISF has prompted airlines to follow suit.
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One Hand Bag Weighing 7 kg Allowed
According to the new BCAS hand baggage policy, passengers are now permitted only one piece of hand baggage inside the aircraft. Regardless of whether a passenger is on a domestic or international flight, they can carry only one hand or cabin bag inside the aircraft. Any additional baggage must be checked in.
Air India states that passengers travelling in economy or premium economy class are allowed one hand baggage weighing up to 7 kg. However, those travelling in first or business class have a higher limit of around 10 kg. Airlines specify that baggage dimensions should not exceed 55 cm (21.6 inches) in height, 40 cm (15.7 inches) in length, and 20 cm (7.8 inches) in width.
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Exemptions for Tickets Booked Before May 2, 2024
Airlines stipulate that the total dimension of a passenger’s hand baggage should not exceed 115 cm. Passengers may incur additional baggage charges if their hand baggage exceeds the weight or size limitations. However, passengers who booked their tickets before May 2, 2024 are eligible for an exemption: 8 kg for economy passengers, 10 kg for premium economy passengers, and 12 kg for first or business class.
It’s important to note that this exemption applies only to tickets booked before May 2, 2024. Any amendments made after this date will subject the passenger to the new baggage policy.
Indigo’s Hand Baggage Regulations
Indigo Airlines permits passengers to carry one cabin bag with a maximum dimension of 115 cm and a weight limit of 7 kg. In addition to this, passengers are allowed a personal bag, such as a lady’s purse or a small laptop bag, not exceeding 3 kg.
