AirAsia recently issued a reminder for all its passengers regarding the cabin baggage allowance. According to their website, passengers are allowed to bring one cabin bag and one small bag on board, and the total of both bags should not exceed 7kg.
Now, just like any ‘new’ implementations, it didn’t go over too well with the flying public. Many users took to social media to show the company their dissatisfaction. Most of them complained about the long queues that they would have to endure at the check-in counters now and how this rule is completely ridiculous to them. Some noted that the luggage itself can easily account for half the weight allowance.
However, the truth is that this regulation has been in place for several years now, but many passengers have been getting away with carry-on bags exceeding 7kg. However, with the new enforcement, company staff have been seen personally weighing each cabin bags before allowing the passengers to board the plane.
Although many people think that the new rule is troublesome, some think enforcing the regulation is wise for the long run. The reason behind limiting 7kg hand luggage is purportedly due to safety reasons, though there is certainly sufficient evidence to call this into question. Some believe it to be motivated by economic reasons.
However, it is the International Air Transport Association (IATA) – an international body which provides global standards for airline safety, security, efficiency, and sustainability – that has suggested the 7kg hand luggage limitation, though not all airlines have implemented it. Even those which have, as you’ll see below, have varying versions of it, depending on your class of travel.
Other airlines with similar rules
If you think AirAsia is the only airline ‘crazy’ enough to implement such a rule, then you might be surprised. There are a number of other airlines around the world that limit cabin baggage to 7kg, including full-service carriers. In fact, some are flag carriers that provide long-haul flights. Here are some examples of airlines that have the same rule as AirAsia:
Singapore Airlines
Qatar Airways
Virgin (Australia)
Emirates
What are your thoughts on the luggage allowance? Let us know in the comments below.
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