Nordwind Airlines, a Russian carrier based at Sheremetyevo International Airport in Moscow, has a baggage policy that varies by cabin class, fare type, and route (domestic vs. international). Below is a detailed summary based on the latest available information as of May 2025. Always check the official Nordwind Airlines website (www.nordwindairlines.ru) or contact their customer service for the most current policy, as rules and fees may change.
Carry-On Baggage Allowance
- Dimensions: One piece of carry-on baggage is allowed, not exceeding 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm (115 cm total, including wheels and handles) to fit in overhead bins or under the seat.
- Additional Personal Item: One personal item is permitted free of charge, such as a laptop bag, handbag, briefcase, umbrella, cane, crutches, overcoat, reading material, camera, or duty-free bag, provided it fits within weight limits and can be safely stowed.
- Charter Flights: Both Economy and Business Class are limited to one piece up to 40 cm x 30 cm x 20 cm and 10 kg.
- Small Aircraft (50 seats or less): Only one personal item is allowed due to limited overhead space.
- Musical Instruments: Allowed as carry-on if in a soft case and within 115 cm total dimensions. Larger instruments (e.g., cello, guitar) require a separate passenger seat booking.
- Enforcement: Nordwind is strict about carry-on limits, with gate agents occasionally measuring and weighing bags, especially at busy airports.
Checked Baggage Allowance
- Combining Allowances: Passengers traveling together with documented proof (e.g., same booking) can combine free baggage allowances, provided no single piece exceeds the fare’s weight limit.
- Special Routes: On flights from St. Petersburg to Cancun, Economy Class is limited to 15 kg checked baggage plus 5 kg carry-on, with no excess baggage permitted.
Special Items and Sporting Equipment
- Musical Instruments: Checked if in a hard case; oversized instruments (>115 cm) require advance notification (48 hours) and may incur fees.
- Fragile/Valuable Items: Can be carried in the cabin with prior agreement and security inspection. Passengers are responsible for their safety. Declare valuable baggage at check-in for a fee; declared value must not exceed actual value. Jewelry, money, and documents should be kept in carry-on, not checked.
- Prohibited Items: Explosives, gas/pepper sprays, and dangerous goods are banned in both carry-on and checked baggage.
Mobility Aids
- Free Transport: Crutches, walking sticks, walkers, and rollators are allowed in the cabin. Collapsible manual wheelchairs can be used until boarding. Powered wheelchairs and electric mobility aids require prior notification and are checked as baggage.
Additional Notes
- Check-In Options: Online check-in is available 24 hours to 3 hours before departure, with boarding passes printed at home or via self-service kiosks. Airport check-in opens 6 hours (international) or 3 hours (domestic) before departure and closes 50 minutes prior. Excess baggage fees can be paid online or at the counter.
- Lost or Damaged Baggage: Report immediately at the airport. Nordwind’s liability is limited for bags with prior damage or Limited Release Tags.
- Oversized/Heavy Baggage: Must be booked 48 hours in advance via customer service. Acceptance depends on aircraft cargo space and airport capabilities.
- Strict Enforcement: User reviews note Nordwind’s rigorous baggage checks, especially for carry-on at gates, with some passengers forced to discard items (e.g., duty-free bags) to meet limits. Arrive early to avoid issues.
- Mobile App: Offers 5% ticket discounts, free seat selection, and baggage management, syncing with the website for convenience.
Recommendations
- Verify Fare Type: Economy Light passengers should budget for checked baggage fees or pack light to stay within carry-on limits.
- Pre-Book Excess Baggage: Save by purchasing additional baggage online during booking or via “My Ticket” service.
- Measure and Weigh Bags: Ensure carry-on and checked bags meet size and weight limits, as Nordwind strictly enforces these, especially on international routes.
- Special Items: Notify Nordwind 48 hours in advance for oversized items, pets, or mobility aids to secure space and avoid delays.
- Arrive Early: Allow 3 hours for international flights to handle check-in, baggage checks, and security, given Nordwind’s strict policies.
