Air Arabia Announces New Luggage Allowance
New Carry-On Rules on Air Arabia Flights, Up to 10kg Free!
Good news for travel enthusiasts: Air Arabia, one popular low-cost airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced that passengers can now carry 10 kg of hand luggage for free. Additionally, travelers with infants are allowed an extra 3 kg of luggage. Let's take a closer look at what you should know about the new rules and how they compare with the baggage policies of other UAE airlines!
Air Arabia Hand Luggage Rules
The Air Arabia hand luggage rules now make traveling more convenient:
1. Weight Limit and Number of Items
Under the new rules, the total weight of hand luggage can be up to 10 kg and can be divided into two items:
a. One main piece of hand luggage (max size: 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm), which can be stored in the overhead compartment.
b. A smaller personal item (e.g., handbag, backpack, or duty-free purchase), which must not exceed 25 cm x 33 cm x 20 cm and must be placed under the seat.
2. Extra Luggage for Traveling with Infants
Passengers traveling with an infant (aged 7 days to 23 months) can carry an extra 3 kg of luggage.
How Does Air Arabia's Policy Compare to Other UAE Airlines?
1. Emirates
On Emirates flights, passengers can bring 7 kg of hand luggage, which includes one main bag. Emirates also allows passengers to carry a reasonable amount of duty-free items (e.g., alcohol, cigarettes, perfume). However, on flights departing from India, passengers can only bring one piece of hand luggage, which must strictly remain under 7 kg.
2. Flydubai
Flydubai enforces similar rules: passengers can carry 7 kg of hand luggage, plus a laptop bag, a woman's handbag, or a man's satchel.
3. Etihad Airways
On Etihad Airways flights, economy class travelers can bring 7 kg of hand luggage. For those traveling with an infant, an extra hand luggage of up to 5 kg is allowed. Moreover, a stroller, bassinet, or car seat can be checked in free of charge, provided it meets airline size requirements.
International Changes: The Example of India
Indian civil aviation security authorities have recently tightened hand luggage rules. Under the new regulations, passengers can only carry one piece of hand luggage, weighing no more than 7 kg, for both domestic and international flights. The Indian regulations contrast with the more generous baggage policies provided by UAE airlines.
Why Are the New Regulations Important?
Air Arabia's new regulation provides convenience for those who often travel with low-cost airlines, especially those embarking on longer journeys. The 10 kg hand luggage option allows passengers to bring more belongings without extra cost. This is particularly beneficial for those planning short trips or not wishing to spend on checked baggage.
Summary
The hand luggage rules offered by Air Arabia and other UAE airlines are flexible and passenger-friendly, especially when compared to other international regulations, such as those in India. Travelers should always check the current baggage policies of airlines to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Before departure, don't forget to check your hand luggage size and weight to ensure it complies with the airline's regulations!
img_alt: Airbus A320 with registration CN-NMG, Air Arabia Airlines, taking off from the runway.