Air India Baggage Policy

Air India’s baggage policy varies by travel class, route, fare type, and frequent flyer status. Below is a concise summary based on the latest available information:

Carry-On Baggage

All Classes: One carry-on bag allowed, max dimensions 55 x 40 x 20 cm (21.6 x 15.7 x 7.8 in, including handles/wheels), and one personal item (e.g., laptop bag, handbag) up to 40 x 30 x 15 cm (16 x 12 x 6 in).

Weight Limits (for tickets issued on/after May 2, 2024):

• Economy: 8 kg (17.6 lbs).
• Premium Economy: 10 kg (22 lbs).
• First/Business: 12 kg (26.4 lbs).

For tickets issued before May 2, 2024, older limits may apply unless reissued/rescheduled.

Infants: One collapsible stroller or car seat allowed as carry-on, free of charge.

Restrictions:

• Lithium-ion batteries (e.g., power banks) must be in carry-on, with a max of 2 spare batteries (≤100 Wh).
• Sikh passengers may carry a kirpan (blade ≤15 cm, total ≤22 cm) on domestic flights within India, but not on international flights or domestic flights from international terminals.
• Powder-like substances (e.g., baby formula) ≥12 oz (350 ml) allowed in carry-on if in sealed containers; otherwise, they must be in checked baggage.
• Prohibited items include lighters, scissors, firearms, and Samsung Galaxy Note 7.

Notes: Oversized/overweight carry-ons must be checked, potentially incurring fees. Only one carry-on bag is allowed per Indian security regulations (BCAS Circular 6/2000).

Excess Baggage Fees

Domestic: INR 600/kg plus GST.

International: USD 10–35/kg or USD/CAD per extra piece, depending on route (e.g., USD 150/kg for USA–India).

Prepaid Discount: Up to 20% off if booked online or via Air India offices at least 6 hours before departure (non-transferable, non-refundable unless Air India cancels the flight).

Notes: Fees vary by route and are higher at the airport. Check specific rates on Air India’s website.

Special Baggage

Sports Equipment: Included in free allowance if within limits; otherwise, standard excess fees apply plus a handling charge (INR/USD/CAD, varies by route). Max dimensions 300 cm (118 in), max weight 32 kg (71 lbs).

Musical Instruments: Small instruments (within carry-on limits) allowed in cabin. Larger ones can be checked (with fees) or secured in an extra seat (max 75 kg, properly packed).

Firearms: One licensed revolver/pistol/shotgun with 50 cartridges allowed in checked baggage after declaration and approval. Exemptions for certain officials/sportspersons.

Assistive Devices: Wheelchairs, mobility aids, etc., carried free, subject to aircraft limitations and DGCA guidelines.

Televisions: Can be part of free allowance or excess baggage, max 203 cm (80 in) with prior arrangement.

Pets: Not allowed on nonstop USA–India flights, except certified service dogs (free for visually/hearing-impaired passengers).

Additional Notes

Code-Share/Interline Flights: Baggage rules of the operating carrier or most significant carrier apply. Check partner airline policies (e.g., no additional allowance on codeshare flights).

Connecting Flights: For same-ticket Air India flights within 24 hours, international sector allowance applies. Separate tickets may require separate allowances.

Baggage Tracker: Air India offers a checked baggage tracking feature, including Apple AirTag support.

Lost/Damaged Baggage: Report issues at the airport before leaving. Use WorldTracer Baggage Tracing System for updates.

Recommendations

• Use Air India’s baggage calculator or “Manage Booking” to confirm your allowance by entering your PNR.
• Weigh/measure bags at home to avoid fees.
• Prepay excess baggage online for discounts.
• Check Air India’s website or contact customer service for route-specific rules, as policies may change.