Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has specific baggage policies for carry-on and checked luggage, which vary by travel class, route, and destination. Below is a concise overview based on the most recent information available:
Carry-On Baggage Policy
Allowance:
- Economy Class: One carry-on bag (max 7 kg) and one personal item (e.g., purse, laptop bag, briefcase).
- Business Class: One carry-on bag (max 12 kg) and one small additional bag (max 5 kg).
Size Restrictions:
- Maximum dimensions: 115 cm (55 x 38 x 22 cm) or 45 linear inches, including handles and wheels.
- Must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat.
Additional Notes:
- Liquids, gels, perfumes, and creams are prohibited in hand luggage due to security regulations and may be confiscated.
- No maximum weight applies to carry-on, but airport-specific restrictions may vary.
Checked Baggage Policy
Allowance:
Domestic Flights:
- Economy Class: Typically 20–30 kg (varies by source; some indicate 30 kg).
- Business Class: Up to 40 kg.
International Flights:
- Economy Class: Generally two pieces, each up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
- Business Class: Two pieces, each up to 28–32 kg.
- From UK Airports: Economy Class allows 40 kg (split into two pieces, max 30 kg per bag).
- Executive Economy: Up to 45–50 kg, depending on the route.
Size Restrictions:
- Maximum dimensions per bag: 157 cm (62 inches) (length + width + height).
- Bags exceeding 62 inches are considered oversized and incur fees.
Special Notes:
- Some sources report higher allowances (e.g., 45 kg for Economy, 50 kg for Executive Economy), but these may be outdated or route-specific.
- Allowances for interline flights (operated by partner airlines) may differ, typically two pieces of 23 kg each.
Excess and Overweight/Oversized Baggage
Fees:
- Excess baggage (beyond free allowance): $85–$95 per additional bag.
- Overweight bags (over 50 lbs/23 kg): Additional fees apply; bags over 99 lbs are not accepted.
- Oversized bags (over 62 inches): Additional charges based on size.
- Domestic excess baggage: Rs. 250 per kg over 20 kg.
Advance Purchase:
- Excess baggage can be purchased online, at PIA booking offices, or through travel agents up to 4 hours before departure.
- Minimum purchase: 5 kg; maximum varies by route.
- Refunds are available without charge for reissued tickets.
Special Items
Sports Equipment:
- Golf equipment may be included in the free allowance; otherwise, charges apply (50% of excess baggage rate for piece-concept routes).
- Other sports equipment may incur fees or require cargo transport.
Pets:
- Dogs, cats, and household birds are allowed in the baggage hold (not cabin) for $125 (domestic) or $200 (international).
- Containers must not exceed 35” x 23” x 40”.
- For UK flights, pets must travel as cargo with proper documentation.
Restricted Items:
- Prohibited in both checked and hand baggage: explosives, compressed gases, flammable items, fireworks, radioactive materials, knives, and sharp objects.
Additional Information
- Limited Release Tags: Used for damaged, fragile, or improperly packed baggage to limit airline liability.
- Baggage Purchase Channels: Available online, at PIA offices, or via travel agents worldwide.
- Verification: Policies can change, so confirm details on PIA’s official website (www.piac.com.pk) or by contacting PIA directly, especially for international routes or special items.
