Mango Airlines, a South African low-cost carrier, has been grounded since July 2021 and had its license suspended in August 2022. As such, the airline is not currently operating, and its baggage policy may not be applicable unless operations resume. Below is a summary of the baggage policy based on the last available information from various sources, which may be outdated due to the airline’s status. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, check directly with Mango Airlines or any official channels if services resume.
Checked Baggage Allowance
- Standard Guests: Free checked baggage allowance of 20 kg per person, regardless of the number of bags, as long as the total weight does not exceed 20 kg.
- Mango Plus Guests: Increased allowance of 30 kg per person.
- Infants: Free checked baggage allowance of 10 kg, though infants do not occupy a seat. A collapsible pushchair and a child car seat can also be checked in at no additional cost.
- Weight Restrictions: No single piece of luggage may exceed 32 kg. Baggage exceeding this weight will not be accepted for transport.
- Excess Baggage Fees: Baggage exceeding the free allowance incurs charges per kilogram. Rates mentioned include R40 per kg if purchased online and R55 per kg at guest services, though these rates may have changed.
- Special Note for Codeshare Flights: For flights booked through South African Airways (SAA) or other codeshare partners, baggage rules may differ. Mango’s policy typically applies, which may cause discrepancies (e.g., SAA may allow 23 kg for sporting goods, but Mango enforces 20 kg). Always verify with the operating carrier.
Carry-On Baggage Allowance
- Weight and Size: Limited to 7 kg per person and must not exceed dimensions of 115 cm (56 cm + 36 cm + 23 cm).
- Additional Items: In addition to the carry-on bag, passengers may bring a handbag, overcoat, umbrella, walking stick, camera, binoculars, or reading material. Guests with infants may carry a small bag for in-flight needs (e.g., feeding bottles, nappies, medication).
- Prohibited Items: Carry-on baggage cannot include toy guns, cutlery, knives, scissors, syringes, blades, nail clippers, or any sharp objects that could be used as weapons. These items may be packed in checked baggage, except for firearms, which are not allowed in any baggage.
Special Items and Sporting Equipment
- Fragile or Valuable Items: Must be packed in sturdy, padded boxes and may require a Limited Liability Release Tag. Mango is not liable for loss or damage to items like knives or crossbows in checked baggage.
- Liquids and Alcohol: Allowed in checked baggage if marked as fragile and properly packaged. Liquids in carry-on must comply with aviation security regulations.
- Dry Ice: Accepted in the cargo hold in small quantities (up to 2.5 kg) for refrigeration, provided it is in a ventilated container and declared at check-in with proper labeling.
- Prohibited Items: Firearms, paintball guns, air guns, crossbows with gas cylinders, and similar items are not allowed in either checked or carry-on baggage.
Additional Notes
- Baggage Identification: Attach a card with your name, phone number, and address to your luggage. Use locks, cable ties, or colorful markers to prevent theft or mistaken identity.
- Lost or Damaged Baggage: Notify a Mango representative at the airport immediately to assist with locating or addressing issues.
- Check-In Procedures: Baggage acceptance ends 40 minutes prior to departure, and gates close 30 minutes before the flight. Online check-in is available, allowing advance baggage and seat selection.
- Operational Status: Since Mango Airlines has not resumed operations as of August 2022, and its future is uncertain, travelers should confirm whether the airline is active before planning. The Gauteng High Court ruled in September 2023 that a decision on the sale of Mango must be made, but no updates confirm resumed flights.
Recommendations
- Verify Policy: If Mango resumes operations, check the official website (www.flymango.com) or contact customer service for the latest baggage policy, as fees and rules may have changed.
- Codeshare Flights: For SAA or other codeshare bookings, confirm which airline’s baggage rules apply to avoid unexpected fees.
- Plan Ahead: Pre-purchase excess baggage online for potential savings, and ensure special items comply with packaging and weight requirements.
Sources
Information is compiled from web sources including SeatGuru, Tripadvisor, Mango’s official website, and other travel-related sites. Note that some data may be outdated due to Mango’s grounding. Always consult official channels for current policies if the airline resumes operations.
