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New rules for the carriage of baggage by air. Twice smaller

At the end of last year, amendments were made to the general rules for the carriage of baggage by air.

According to the law, all Russian airlines must obey the same rules.

What are the rules for carrying baggage on an airplane in 2019?

The new baggage rules allow a bag/suitcase up to 30 kg for one passenger seat on the plane. For each passenger, according to the norms, individual baggage is issued.

In Russian and international airlines, it is customary to divide baggage into the following weight categories:

For a child under 2 years old, you can check out separate baggage up to 10 kg.

The allowable baggage weight depends on the ticket category:

  • In economy class - 20 kg per passenger.
  • In business class - up to 30 kg.
  • In the first class - up to 30 kg.

If the weight of the baggage exceeds the allowable limits, it is called excess baggage; baggage over 30 kg - heavy.

Most carriers allow a slight overweight of 1-2 kg. If the excess weight is more than 2 kg, you will have to pay extra.

In case of excess baggage, the passenger pays extra for each extra kilogram. There are no uniform tariffs: each airline sets its own price.

Depending on the policy of the air carrier and the specific flight, the overweight surcharge can be calculated:

  • Based on the cost of the maximum economy class fare. With this approach, 1 kg of overweight costs 1.5% of the ticket price.
  • Based on a fixed amount set by the air carrier. On different flights, this amount may vary and ranges from 5-15 € per kg.

In addition to weight, baggage may exceed the norm in terms of dimensions, including the sum of 3 dimensions (length + height + width). This baggage includes:

  • Sports Equipment;
  • some musical instruments (double bass, guitar);
  • large household appliances.

The maximum dimensions of checked baggage for all classes must be 158 cm.

For the transportation of oversized cargo, a preliminary agreement with the airline is required. On the day of departure, it is recommended to arrive at the airport in advance, since it takes more time to check in such cargo.

The company may refuse to transport oversized cargo if there is not enough space in the luggage compartment.

How much does baggage cost on an airplane if the ticket is without baggage?

Many airlines provide a no-baggage service, according to which the passenger flies only with hand luggage.

The advantages of this service include a reduced cost of the flight. The downside is that the tickets are non-refundable.

It is allowed to carry any items in the baggage, except for those that are classified as dangerous in international practice. Their list is given in the ticket.

It is also important to understand that there is no single global baggage standard for all airlines. You need to focus on the country to which the passenger is flying.

For example, when flying to Dubai, it is forbidden to take on board objects and books of a religious orientation, except for Islam.

According to the rules, most airlines prohibit the transportation in the luggage compartment of the aircraft:

Most airlines do not allow you to take a mercury thermometer with you into the cabin. It must be checked in as baggage, packed in a plastic case, and placed so that it is not damaged under any circumstances.

Most airlines prohibit the carriage of all types of knives, from penknives to kitchen and hunting knives. But there are also airports that allow the transportation of penknives and folding knives without fixation up to 6 cm long.

To carry knives longer than 10 cm (household, hunting, etc.) in your luggage, you must first obtain a special permit. If a knife is carried in baggage as a melee weapon, then it must also be in a case.

It is also allowed to transport in checked baggage, subject to the required conditions, such sharp objects as:

  • scissors;
  • razors;
  • swords and checkers;
  • bayonets and swords;
  • scimitars;
  • crossbows;
  • imitators of any type of weapon.

According to the rules of transportation, it is undesirable to put in baggage:

Important! Take these things with you in your hand luggage or leave them at home.

Aircraft baggage restrictions

Liquids include:

You can carry any of these liquids in your checked baggage.. There are no restrictions on volume, however, the general allowable weight limits must be observed (see above).

You can carry medicines in your baggage that are not prohibited by customs regulations and are on free sale, i.e. sold without a prescription.

Customs regulations prohibit the transport of narcotic and psychotropic substances on the plane. The presence of a prescription from a doctor indicating the dose requires such means as:

Under the official bans of many countries fall potent substances that may be contained in some medicines, for example, such as:

  • codeine;
  • phenobarbital, ;
  • pseudoephedrine;
  • chlorphenamine maleate;
  • diazepam.

The allowed amount of medicines on the plane is very conditional: for your own use during the trip. If more than 5 packs of medicines are found in the luggage, then the customs services are likely to have questions for the passenger.

To avoid fines and confiscations, get documents proving the need to transport medicines in these volumes.

All medicines transported on the plane must be in their original packaging, comply with the expiration date stated on the packaging.

Note! For unhindered transportation of insulin, a diabetic passport must be issued before the trip.

You can put food in the luggage of the aircraft, provided that:

  • This product is not included in the Customs Prohibited List (for international flights).
  • This product is not on the air carrier's list of restrictions.
  • The liquid product is not opened, hermetically sealed.

If a flight is made between countries, then the things and products being transported are subject to customs requirements for individuals. They are set by the host countries, and these requirements must be taken into account.

As for domestic flights, customs rules do not apply to such baggage.

Before traveling, you need to find out the requirements of the customs of the country of destination, as well as the country where the transfer is made.

Customs bans often concern epidemiologically dangerous products without factory packaging. For example, it is forbidden to import meat and dairy products into the EU countries; This measure was introduced to prevent the spread of infections.

U.S. customs does not allow a number of products from other countries, namely:

  • meat;
  • eggs;
  • fish;
  • dairy products;
  • many types of vegetables and fruits.

To carry exotic fruits from southern countries in your baggage, you will need a special container so that they are not damaged during the flight.

On domestic Russian flights, you can carry in your baggage an unlimited amount of alcoholic beverages up to 24% alcohol (but not more than the general weight allowance for baggage).

Strong drinks (24–70 °) - up to 5 liters, while:

  • up to 3 liters of alcoholic beverages - duty free;
  • over 3 and up to 5 liters - with a surcharge at customs.

The single rate of the vehicle in excess of the norm of 3 liters is 10 € for each liter in excess of the norm.

These standards for individuals apply to any imported alcohol in baggage, including:

  • beer;
  • vodka;
  • champagne;
  • wine, etc.

You can transport alcohol on an airplane only in its original packaging.. Domestic wines, moonshine will be confiscated at customs.

In some countries, the restriction on the export of alcoholic beverages is even stricter. So, for example, from Hungary you can take out no more than 1 liter of strong alcohol (from 22%), and up to 2 liters of less strong alcoholic beverages.

An exception is made only for grape wine and beer: here the restrictions are less strict - you can take out up to 4 liters of wine and 16 liters of beer.

Alcohol with an alcohol content of 24-70% is allowed to be carried only in checked baggage, and this must be taken into account when traveling by Russian air carriers.

There is no limit on the number of cigarettes in checked baggage. The main rule is not to exceed the limits of the customs service of the country of destination.

It is forbidden for one passenger to bring into the territory of the Russian Federation more than:

  • 200 cigarettes (one block);
  • 50 cigars;
  • 250 grams of tobacco.

Important! Minors are strictly prohibited from carrying cigarettes.

These restrictions apply in all EU countries. In the US, the limits are as follows: a passenger aged 21 and over can carry up to 2 kg of tobacco (leaf).

As for electronic cigarettes, there are no restrictions on their transportation. Such a cigarette is equated with electronic devices such as a laptop or telephone.

Most airlines have a strict ban on lighters. You cannot carry in your checked baggage:

  • zippo lighters;
  • souvenir lighters, even if they do not contain a single gram of gasoline;
  • other types of "named" lighters.

You can take an ordinary lighter filled with liquefied gas with you on board the aircraft.

So, when planning a flight on domestic and international flights, be sure to study what and in what quantities you can carry in the luggage of the aircraft. The information provided above in the article will help in this matter.

Video: New rules for baggage and hand luggage on airplanes come into force

At the end of 2017, President Putin V.V. A law amending the General Rules for the Air Transportation of Passengers, Baggage, Cargo and Requirements for Servicing Passengers, Consignors, and Consignees was signed. According to the adopted law, Russian airlines are introducing uniform rules for carrying baggage on an airplane, with the exception of Aeroflot's subsidiary, Pobeda.

Actual! ✈

Let's take a look at what rules are relevant in 2019 for carrying luggage on an airplane.

According to the adopted November law, the new baggage allowance allows for one piece of a bag or suitcase weighing up to 30 kg. Less is allowed, more is not. Individual baggage is issued for each passenger.

Important! The allowable weight of things depends on the ticket category: economy, business or first class. The higher the class of the ticket, the more opportunities are provided for the amount of luggage.

Separate baggage can be issued for a child under two years old. The weight of the bag must not exceed 10 kg.

There is no single global standard for all airlines. It is worth focusing on the country to which the passenger is flying. For example, when traveling to Dubai, objects and literary publications of a religious orientation are prohibited for transportation, with the exception of Islam. Also consider the restrictions of each airline individually.

Excess baggage

So, if a passenger has purchased an economy class ticket, then he can carry baggage weighing up to 23 kg. With a larger load, the traveler undertakes to pay extra, but some air carriers allow a small excess without additional payment.

If you know in advance that baggage will fall into the excess category, check with your air carrier for the cost of the surcharge.

Baggage over 30 kg - heavy baggage

Carriage of luggage on the plane: the new rules equate the weight of more than 30 kg to the heavy category. Previously, the maximum weight was up to 32 kg.

For such loads, you should pay extra for each kilogram. There are no uniform tariffs, each company sets the price at its own discretion.

In addition to excess weight, there may be an excess of dimensions in the sum of three dimensions. These things include:

  • mountain skis and other large sports equipment;
  • musical instruments, for example, guitar, double bass;
  • home appliances such as a refrigerator.

For the transportation of such goods, a preliminary agreement with the company is required. Before the flight, contact the support service. On the day of departure, it is better to arrive at the airport in advance, as it will take more time to check in a special cargo.

Some carriers allow you to bring free ski equipment in winter or diving boards to resorts.

Companies have the right to refuse transportation of oversized cargo if the cargo compartments are too small or there is not enough space.

Baggage free ticket

A number of airlines support the no-baggage service. According to him, the passenger flies only with hand luggage. This method has both advantages and disadvantages. The pluses include the low cost of the flight. The downside is that the tickets are non-refundable.

Consolidated baggage

For couples, traveling families, colleagues and friends, there is a luggage pooling service. You can put all things in one suitcase, which will be listed as one piece of luggage.

Fragile luggage

When transporting glassware, electronics and decor items, many passengers worry about the safety of things, because most often at airports suitcases are treated carelessly, thrown into a general dump.

In such situations, the traveler can check in baggage marked “fragile”. To do this, provide information when registering things, and the suitcase will not be allowed on the tape. It will be carried by loaders to the luggage compartment.

Note! The possibility of handling fragile baggage does not guarantee the safety of the passenger's belongings.

Fragile items that meet the parameters of hand luggage are best taken into the cabin. The main thing is that things do not contain liquid. Jars with jam and compotes will have to be abandoned by handing them over to the luggage compartment.

hand luggage

How much luggage is allowed on the plane? Amendments to the law on air travel that came into force in November limited the minimum weight of hand luggage. Previously, it was possible to carry at least 10 kg for non-refundable and refundable tickets for free, now the limit is from 5 kg.

Most carriers allowed a 10 kg suitcase to be carried on board. For transportation in the luggage compartment took an additional fee.

The new law means that the airline is obliged to take in the cabin from 5 kg, but if desired, it is possible to increase the weight upwards. For example, "S7", "UTair" and "Aeroflot" announced their intention to leave the previous norms of 10 kg.

Aeroflot's official website currently has the following rules:

In addition, the list of free items for carrying on board in addition to hand luggage has undergone changes. We'll talk about them below.

What items can be taken into the cabin without being checked in as hand luggage?

According to the old requirements, it was allowed to take the following things to the salon for free without weighing, tagging and registration:

  • costume;
  • laptop;
  • video camera;
  • camera;
  • mobile phone;
  • baby food for the duration of the flight in an unrestricted flight;
  • carrying for the baby (folding cradle or folding stroller);
  • books, magazines, newspapers;
  • outerwear;
  • women's handbag;
  • briefcase;
  • folder with papers and documents;
  • cane;
  • crutches;
  • umbrella;
  • bouquet of flowers.

Now the umbrella, laptop and cell phone are excluded from the list. The Ministry of Transport explained these changes by the possibility of removing the listed items in the bag.

In addition, the list of free items for transportation was supplemented with a new item - a backpack. The management of Pobeda Airlines confirmed the information that the transportation of backpacks will be allowed if its size fits into the established norms of the company.

For Pobeda, hand luggage restrictions will be 36 × 30 × 27, while the minimum ticket price will start from five hundred rubles.

Things allowed in hand luggage and with you

A passenger may wish to keep a number of items with him or in hand luggage. These include:

  • carbon dioxide balloons (used to activate artificial limbs);
  • eyeglass repair tools, including a screwdriver less than 50 mm long;
  • lighter or non-hazardous matches (only with you);
  • pacemaker;
  • other pharmaceutical devices, including on radioactive isotopes, with lithium batteries. It is allowed to keep only with you;
  • robot toy;
  • razors, including disposable ones;
  • eyelash curlers;
  • nitroglycerin tablets or spray for treatment;
  • oxygen cylinders for medical purposes;
  • injection needles for a passenger with diabetes or specialized medicines.

Actions on loss

No one is protected from losing things on air travel. Items go missing when loaded or loaded into the baggage compartment, they are accidentally sent on another flight.

In case of loss of personal belongings, follow the instructions:

  1. Make sure you have your luggage receipt on hand;
  2. Apply with a leaflet to the department of search for missing things;
  3. Write a statement;

Within three weeks, the carrier chosen by the passenger is obliged to find the items and return them. The parcel is delivered to your home for free, and the client does not have to go anywhere and pay for anything.

When returning damaged baggage or missing it after three weeks, you can contact the company with a request to compensate for the losses.

If the carrier refused to compensate for the damage, the citizen has the right to request a written refusal, with which he can go to court for further proceedings.

The Montreal Convention has consolidated an international agreement that stipulates the maximum possible compensation for the loss of a bag - 1131 SDR (artificial reserve and means of payment issued by the IMF). It's about $1500.

In practice, the figure depends on the specific carrier. Foreign companies pay an average of $20/kg. Major foreign airlines may pay the excess amount according to their internal rules. Russian airlines pay about 600 rubles each.

If a passenger has lost baggage while on an international flight, they should apply for a search no later than one week after the date of receipt of the items.

On domestic flights, it is allowed to leave a claim within six months from the date of loss.

Standard compensation requires a description of the missing baggage. If you have receipts for lost items, you can present them with a statement. Then you should expect a full or partial refund.

Advice! If you are transporting fragile or valuable items, insure them before flying with a declared value by paying an additional fee.

Aeroflot can be considered quite a "friendly" company in relation to passengers. Aeroflot allows you to take on board 10 kilograms of hand luggage (for business class passengers - up to 15 kg.), In addition, Aeroflot has seasonal specials. offers that allow you to carry sports equipment in your baggage free of charge. You can carry a set of skis (skis, poles, boots, helmet) for free, a diving kit, and if you are heading to Cuba, you can check in a bicycle in your luggage (I personally know people who have tried this on themselves).

According to the new rules of Aeroflot, now you need to monitor the weight of luggage (no more than 23 kg) and overall dimensions (158 cm in the sum of 3 dimensions).

On Aeroflot flights, you can carry baggage free of charge for:

  • economy class - 1 seat (no more than 23 kg);
  • economy class (exclusively for the Premium-Economy, Premium-Comfort fare groups) - 2 pieces (not more than 23 kg each);
  • business class - 2 seats (no more than 23 kg each).

If you are a member of the Aeroflot Bonus loyalty program, which I wrote about earlier, you can count on one more piece of baggage (exclusively for owners of gold and silver cards).

If you are flying on an Aeroflot within the United States, then even in economy class you are allowed to carry 2 pieces of baggage of 23 kg each.

Aeroflot has several specific restrictions on the carriage of cargo. Since the largest state-owned Russian air carrier has the majority of aircraft on lease, the owners of which register winged machines offshore in Bermuda, Bermuda rules and restrictions must be observed on board. For example, there is a ban on smoking electronic cigarettes in the cabin and carrying them in luggage.

Fellow passengers, observe the Bermuda Rules on Aeroflot aircraft. :) There is nothing wrong with that, since most Aeroflot planes are new cars on lease, and not very used ones.

Aeroflot carry-on baggage rules

The rules for carrying hand luggage on Aeroflot aircraft are the most humane in comparison with other airlines. Most of the restrictions on the transport of dangerous goods, which were described in the last post, also apply to Aeroflot.

The weight of hand luggage on an Aeroflot plane

You can take up to 10 kilograms of hand luggage on board the aircraft (for economy class passengers), and for business class passengers up to 15 kilograms.

Aeroflot hand luggage size

On board the Aeroflot, you can carry one item of hand luggage, items for personal use and the so-called accessory for hand luggage (I wrote about this in detail in the article about "Hand luggage on the plane").

The total size of hand luggage at Aeroflot should not exceed 115 cm (the sum of three dimensions is 40 cm, width - 20 cm, length - 55 cm).

Additionally and completely free of charge (for Aeroflot passengers), you can bring the following items into the cabin:

  • handbag / men's briefcase;
  • folder for papers;
  • umbrella;
  • cane;
  • bouquet of flowers;
  • outerwear;
  • laptop computer, camera, video camera;
  • baby food for the child during the flight;
  • baby cradle when transporting a child;
  • suit in a suitcase;
  • cell phone;
  • crutches;
  • bag with purchases from the Duty Free store.

Aeroflot excess baggage rates

If you exceeded the allowed weight or size of baggage (at least by a kilogram), then Aeroflot will require additional money from you, the amount of which will depend on the flight (within Russia and outside Russia).

If the allowable weight (from 23 to 32 kg.) or overall dimensions (from 158 to 203 cm.) are exceeded, when flying within Russia, you will have to pay 50 euros and 100 euros / dollars if the flight is outside of Russia.

If the allowable weight (from 32 to 50 kg) or overall dimensions (more than 203 cm) are exceeded, you will have to pay 100 euros for a flight within Russia and 150 euros / dollars for a flight outside of Russia.

Siberia Airlines, aka S7, has similar rules for carrying hand luggage on an airplane. S7 passengers are prohibited from carrying the following products of animal origin in the cabin: skins and furs, elephant tusks, etc. S7 passengers are prohibited from carrying dairy and meat products. An exception is baby food, and food prescribed to the passenger by a doctor.

S7 passengers are prohibited from transporting (neither in hand luggage nor in baggage) devices containing lithium batteries, such cargo must be declared as especially dangerous goods.

Carry-on baggage rules s7

For an economy class passenger, 1 piece of baggage is allocated. For a business class passenger, 2 pieces of luggage and a slightly larger hand luggage weight are allocated.

On S7 aircraft, passengers are allowed (upon prior agreement with the airline) to carry pets (cats, dogs, birds) in hand luggage. Transportation of animals is paid at the rate for excess baggage based on the actual weight of the animal/bird together with the container (cage), regardless of the number of other items of the passenger.

To transport pets in the aircraft cabin, you must comply with a number of rules:

  • you need to have a vet. certificate;
  • the weight of the animal together with the container (cage) does not exceed 8 kg, and the overall dimensions of the cage in the sum of three dimensions do not exceed 115 cm, while the height of the container (cage) should not exceed 20 cm;
  • guide dogs (accompanying blind passengers) are transported in a muzzle and on a leash, there must also be a certificate of special dog training.

All other animals, whose weight and size exceeds the above, travel exclusively in the luggage compartment of the aircraft.

Hand luggage size s7

The hand luggage allowance on S7 Airlines flights is similar to the Aeroflot allowance and to the allowances of most airlines. The size of hand luggage on board the s7 (according to the sum of three dimensions) must not exceed 115 centimeters (dimensions not more than 55x40x20).

In the check-in area of ​​S7 Airlines, there are special restrictive frames with which you can check whether hand luggage complies with the established dimensions.

The Russian low-cost airline Pobeda is different from all other low-cost airlines in the world (who would have thought :)). Many passengers believe that different Victory is not for the better.

To begin with, the carriage of hand luggage on the planes of Pobeda Airlines is paid! The exception is some cases stipulated by federal aviation regulations.

You can carry the following items in hand luggage for free on Pobeda:

  • briefcase or laptop bag (strictly specified sizes);
  • ladies handbag;
  • folder for papers;
  • umbrella;
  • cane;
  • bouquet of flowers;
  • outerwear;
  • printed publications for reading in flight;
  • baby food for a child (exclusively for the duration of the flight);
  • cell phone;
  • camera;
  • video camera;
  • laptop;
  • suit in a suitcase;
  • baby cradle when transporting a child;
  • crutches;
  • stretcher or wheelchair when transporting a passenger with reduced mobility.

The rules do not limit the total number of such items, but you can take only one item of each item in hand luggage (you can take a laptop bag, a camera and a bouquet, but you can’t take two laptop bags).

The Pobeda low-cost airline limited the size of a handbag or men's briefcase to no more than 75 cm in the sum of three dimensions (35x25x15 cm).

Victory baggage allowance and carry-on baggage

According to the rules of the Pobeda low-cost airline, only 1 piece of baggage per passenger (in the luggage compartment of the aircraft) can be transported free of charge. Baggage weight must be less than 10 kg and dimensions must not exceed 158 cm in three dimensions. The Pobeda low-cost airline allowed each passenger to take a limited list of personal items with them to the cabin of the aircraft (I indicated the list of items a little higher). All other things and items are transported in the cabin for an additional fee.

The price of paid hand luggage depends on the item and weight. For example, carrying a backpack, sports bag, wheeled bag, package, etc. costs from 999 rubles for each item. It is advisable to pay for all your hand luggage in advance and preferably through the Pobeda website on the Internet, since at the check-in desk you will need to pay 500 rubles more (1,500 rubles), and when boarding the plane, another 500 rubles more than at the check-in desk ( 2,000 rubles).

Carriage of 10 kilograms of any checked baggage on Pobeda flights will be free of charge! If you are traveling with a backpack, then take all the most valuable things out of it (shove them into your pockets or wherever you can), and put the backpack in your luggage.

There is no food on the planes of the low-cost airline Pobeda, and bringing food on board is subject to an overweight fee, so either sit and starve, or hide food in a lady's purse. :)

UTair Airlines has several convenient tariffs that will help reduce the cost of the flight. Each passenger can choose which services they wish to pay for and which not.

  • Light fare - only free hand luggage (1 piece, 10 kg), all other luggage and other services, including meals on board, are paid separately;
  • Standard fare - free hand luggage (1 piece, 10 kg.), free baggage (1 piece, 23 kg.), meals on board are paid separately;
  • fare Flexible - free hand luggage (1 piece, 10 kg.), free baggage (1 piece, 23 kg.), meals on board are paid separately;
  • Business fare - free hand luggage (2 pieces, 10 kg.), free baggage (2 pieces, 32 kg.).

UTair Airlines allow free transportation of sports equipment (in addition to your baggage).

UTair hand luggage dimensions

UTair allows you to take things weighing up to 10 kg and up to 115 cm in size (according to the sum of three dimensions with dimensions of 55x40x20 cm) in hand luggage, you can carry one piece in hand luggage. Regardless of the type of ticket, a UTair passenger can carry additional items from the list approved by the Federal Aviation Rules:

  • bouquet of flowers;
  • video camera;
  • mobile phone;
  • umbrella;
  • camera and laptop;
  • cane;
  • crutches, and a wheelchair for disabled passengers.

Ural Airlines has several simple and understandable fares, for large of which the rule "one passenger - one suitcase" works. The exceptions are the "Promo" tariffs (there is a charge for baggage) and the "Business, Comfort" tariff (there are 2 pieces of 32 kg each).

  • Promo fare - luggage is paid separately;
  • Economy fare - 1 piece of luggage, 23 kg;
  • Premium Economy fare - 1 piece of baggage, 23 kg;
  • tariffs Business Light, Comfort Light - 1 piece of luggage, 32 kg;
  • tariffs Business, Comfort - 2 pieces of luggage, 23 kg. each.

Ural Airlines allow free transportation of sports equipment (in addition to your luggage).

Aircraft carry-on baggage allowance

It's just pointless to talk about it. On a family trip, you can’t do without suitcases and bulky bags, baby strollers and other things necessary for a small passenger, most of which go on a flight in the luggage compartment of an aircraft.

And in order for everything to go smoothly at the airport, it is important to know in advance how many things you can carry for free, what are the allowed dimensions and weight of luggage for the ticket purchased at the selected airline, how to organize the transportation of your things correctly, how to transport non-standard large items, what to do in some emergency situations , for example, if luggage is suddenly lost or it turns out that there are too many things in the luggage. And today is just about that.

General baggage rules

Air carriers around the world are extremely concerned about flight safety. And for this, strict standards and rules of transportation are being developed. Among the priority norms is the calculation of the maximum baggage weight per passenger. Because excess weight on board is a direct threat to the safety of passengers.

All things with which a passenger goes on a flight can be called in one word "baggage", which is conventionally divided into:

  • checked baggage - bags, suitcases, boxes and other items with which the passenger leaves at check-in at the airport, entrusting the care of them to his employees;
  • hand luggage - bags, packages and suitcases that will be with him until the end of the flight. Previously, a special tag was attached to them. Under the new rules, no;
  • personal belongings that are transported free of charge in excess of the established one (for a complete list, see clause 135 of the Russian Aviation Regulations (FAR)).

Air travel around the world is highly regulated. All airlines-carriers and passengers are obliged to obey the established Rules. For Russian airlines in terms of carrying passengers and baggage, various regulations and rules for air transportation are applied, which were amended in accordance with Law No. 409 of October 5, 2017.

According to the law on non-refundable tickets, not only some hand luggage and baggage allowances have changed, but Russian airlines have the opportunity to offer passengers cheaper tickets without baggage, that is, without free baggage, independently determining for which fare to provide baggage.

However, for passengers with tickets that include baggage, a single free baggage allowance has been introduced. This rate cannot be reduced. And if the carrier wants to be generous and increase the allowed limit upwards, please. This is not forbidden.

Each carrier has the right to change and establish its own standards, without going beyond the established general rules and without worsening the conditions for servicing passengers. The limit value may be different (it depends on the rules of the carrier, the type of aircraft, the duration and direction of the flight, the cost of the ticket and the class of service), but its maximum weight is limited - no more than 30 kg (previously it was 32 kg) for one seat. Foreign airlines have their own rules that comply with the laws of their countries.

Each specific situation has its own nuances. In order not to be mistaken, be sure to specify the weight and dimensions of your free baggage, the parameters of which are indicated for a specific fare on the ticket. This information can also be found on the carrier's website.

How much will you have to pay for the transfer?

Sometimes it happens that at the counter at the airport it suddenly turns out that the suitcase weighs more than indicated on the purchased ticket, and the free baggage allowance is exceeded by some parameter: by weight, size or number of seats (depending on the company's rules). There's nothing you can do about it, in most cases you will have to pay extra for the advantage.

The amounts of surcharges are different: from 2500 to 7500 rubles for domestic flights and up to 200 euros for international flights. The amount depends on the carrier's policy (some will turn a blind eye to a small overweight of 1-2kg, while others may bill in full) and how big the overweight is.

Most often, airlines have the following restrictions:

  • for economy class - 1 free seat (suitcase / bag) no more than 20-23 kg;
  • for business class - 2 pieces of baggage (each no more than 30-32 kg);
  • according to the sum of three dimensions (length, width, height), luggage should not exceed 158 cm (or 203 cm).

Sometimes it is more profitable to fly on an expensive ticket with heavy luggage than in economy class with a surcharge for overweight.

Within the maximum allowed limit (at international airports - this is 1 piece of baggage no more than 32 kg, according to Russian rules - no more than 30 kg), it is allowed to carry baggage in excess of the free allowance. In this case, you will have to pay extra according to the carrier's tariffs for excess baggage (that is, for baggage that is not included in the cost of the purchased fare ticket) and coordinate the transportation of such baggage with it.

As for low-cost airlines, they often do not have free luggage. For example, in Russia, all baggage at a standard non-refundable rate is paid, and its cost depends on the weight and number of pieces. It is allowed to take into the cabin any safe items (regardless of their weight and any lists) that can be squeezed through a measuring frame with dimensions of 36 x 30 x 27 cm.

How to transport oversized and heavy baggage?

Heavy baggage - according to Russian rules, this is everything that exceeds the weight of one piece of 30 kg.

Oversized baggage is an excess of the baggage allowance in terms of dimensions, that is, 1 piece is more than 203 cm (or 158 cm, as in most airlines). When specifying the size of a suitcase (bag) when packed, wheels, handles, and pockets are taken into account.

For excess weight, as well as for exceeding the dimensions, you will have to pay.

Depending on the weight limit established in a particular company (in the order of the Ministry of Transport, the maximum weight of baggage allowed for transportation is 50 kg) and size (exceeding 270-320 cm in total), such heavy and large baggage may not be accepted for transportation even for money.

What should the passenger do in this case? Such items can be sent (of course, after agreeing this with the carrier) along the route as unaccompanied cargo, which is accepted at the cargo terminal in the cargo service of the company. You can receive your baggage at the airport of arrival using the air waybill received during baggage check-in.

What to do if you have non-standard baggage?

Most often these are large, unusual and heavy things: musical instruments, snowboards and surfboards, skis, household appliances (washing machines, refrigerators, air conditioners, freezers, TVs, vacuum cleaners) and more. For the carriage of such baggage, airlines prescribe special conditions, indicating the maximum size, weight and contents of one set of baggage, which it is advisable to familiarize yourself with in advance.

Non-standard baggage (most often sports equipment) can be transported free of charge as an addition to the rest of the baggage or as regular baggage within the limits of the ticket fare or for an additional charge. Special conditions may apply, such as the absence of size restrictions that apply to regular baggage. For some types of such non-standard baggage, a fixed fee is charged.

Items listed in paragraph 136 of the Federal Aviation Rules (baby strollers, walkers, wheelchairs and other baggage) are transported free of charge in checked baggage if it is impossible to place them in the cabin without violating comfortable and safe conditions for passengers.

Lucky for those who travel with skis and snowboards. Many carriers (for example, Aeroflot from November 1 to May 15) allow passengers to carry ski equipment and snowboards free of charge in addition to the main baggage or at no extra charge if they fit into the free weight baggage allowance (often without a size limit).

But, again, you need to double-check everything for reliability. For example, low-fare airlines and low-cost airlines often do not have the option of free transportation of sports equipment. And in some, the allowable weight (usually 20-23 kg) is reduced to 10 kg.

Some destinations (usually for long flights) sometimes have their own rules that allow you to carry sets of equipment of a certain weight for surfing and diving at no extra charge during certain periods.

You can also carry golf bags, hockey sticks, fishing rods, musical instruments for free, if the established norms are not violated. But if the weight, size, number of seats exceed the free rate, then all of the above will go on a flight only with a surcharge.

The passenger is obliged to discuss the transportation of such cargo with the carrier company in advance (36 hours before departure). Because it may happen that the airline does not have conditions for carrying such non-standard baggage (the size of the cargo does not correspond to the type of aircraft or baggage of this size simply cannot be placed on board). Without a preliminary agreement, it may simply not be accepted from you due to lack of free space.

If it turns out that it is not possible to organize the transportation of non-standard and heavy baggage, then it may be possible to send it as ordinary baggage with payment for exceeding the free allowance.

Transportation of fragile luggage

Very often, airline passengers have questions about what to do with fragile and breakable things. It is safest (if possible) to carry such luggage in the cabin, having issued it as hand luggage. If this is not possible, luggage is checked in at check-in with an announcement that it requires particularly careful transportation. If this option is provided by this airline, a special sticker is glued to the cargo and things are delivered on board manually, and not in the total mass of suitcases on the tape.

Experienced travelers who often fly with non-standard baggage claim that, although there are many different nuances, if you strictly follow the rules of the carrier, everything usually goes as normal.

Tip: when transporting expensive and fragile items, it is advisable to insure the baggage and send it with a declared value (this service will have to be paid).

And, of course, there is a list of items that will not be allowed to be carried in baggage under any pretext for security reasons.

What is forbidden to be transported on an airplane?

Most airlines cannot carry:

  • everything that ignites and explodes easily (including firecrackers, sparklers, flares, gunpowder, cartridges, matches, gasoline and gas lighters, solvents, paints, gasoline, acetone, ethyl alcohol and others);
  • gases of various types (liquefied, poisonous, compressed, including cartridges for burners and refills for lighters);
  • radioactive, toxic, easily oxidizing and corrosive substances (all kinds of acids, alkalis, mercury and devices containing it);
  • rechargeable (lithium-ion) batteries with a capacity of more than 160 Wh (if the power of devices is from 100 to 160 Wh, they are allowed to be transported inside the equipment with the permission of the airline, up to 100 Wh in laptops, phones, inside equipment, while spare batteries can be transported only in hand luggage);
  • any sharp, heavy, cutting objects that may be potentially dangerous to others;
  • firearms, cold steel, electric shock weapons without special permits;
  • electronic cigarettes, magnetized items.

This list is quite large. It is set out in Appendix 1 to the Rules for conducting pre-flight and post-flight inspections No. 104 dated July 25, 2007.

Are children eligible for checked baggage?

For small travelers from 2 to 12 years old, the same baggage allowance applies as for adult passengers. For babies (up to two years old) without a separate seat, free baggage allowance is allowed weighing up to 10 kg and not more than 115 cm in the sum of measurements.

Can luggage be combined?

The new rules retain the ability to combine items into one baggage at the request of passengers traveling together (two or more) under certain conditions. Moreover, one piece of such combined baggage, according to Russian rules, cannot be heavier than 30 kg and exceed 203 cm in size.

Traveling families with one suitcase are sometimes met halfway and they are forgiven for a slight advantage. But still, in practice, much depends on the captiousness of employees. In each case, this is decided individually.

It is not always possible to carry one heavy bag instead of two light bags on foreign trips: European trade unions take care of their loaders and prohibit the lifting of luggage in excess of the norm.

Naturally, there are exceptions for bulky baggage that cannot be separated (musical instruments, equipment and equipment for sports, etc.).

What to do if luggage is lost?

You landed, and your things on the tape did not appear? Don't panic. But some actions need to be taken immediately, without leaving the arrivals area. Locate the staff of the airline making the flight who are looking for lost baggage, and presenting them with a ticket, baggage ticket, passport, issue an official written request.

According to Russian laws, the search for lost baggage can take 21 days (how such a search takes place can be tracked on the website using an online service in some airlines). When the missing luggage is found, the carrier is obliged to deliver it to the address indicated by the passenger free of charge.

If after three weeks the luggage has not been found or has been found, but partially or completely damaged, you can apply for compensation to the airline.

International rules set the maximum amount of compensation payments in case of loss of baggage or its partial damage. In fact, in each specific situation, the amount of compensation is determined by the airline and depends on its internal rules. In case of refusal to compensate for the damage caused, you should apply to the court.

How to pay less for luggage?

Universal advice for such a case - do not take too much. Sometimes even a small advantage can cause big problems. Especially if this is a trip abroad or you have to use the services of several airlines.

Here you can not do without studying the rules that apply to different carriers along the route. Otherwise, even with an excess of 1-2 kg, you will have to pay extra. And not only this. European movers, who are prohibited by their unions from lifting luggage heavier than 32 kg, may simply refuse to deliver such a load.

Be especially careful when purchasing low-cost tickets from low-cost airlines or at a no-baggage fare. Often, in which case such tickets cannot be returned, and you will have to fly light.

Baggage restrictions may be encountered when purchasing tickets at promotional rates and promotions, when using bonuses. Such flights, at first glance, financially advantageous, sometimes offer lower baggage allowances than the standard fare, or even offer a choice of either checked baggage or hand luggage.

There is only one way out - try to take things a little less and leave at least some weight reserve up to the norm established by the carrier, which you need to familiarize yourself with in advance, and take this into account when packing your luggage at home. To do this, weighing your weight with and without luggage on floor scales, it is easy to make simple calculations and get rid of everything superfluous if something happens and repack your suitcase without hassle and fuss.