Etihad Reduces Cabin Luggage Allowance

Etihad Airways has revised its cabin baggage rules, allowing economy class travellers to bring only one bag weighing no more than seven kilograms onboard.

First and business class travellers’ allowances remain unchanged.

The airline claims this will lead to smoother journeys as it approaches the hectic summer season.

“As we enter peak travel season and prepare for a high number of passengers on all flights, Etihad has amended its cabin baggage policy to manage better the quantity of bags brought on board,” the airline said in a statement.

“Excess cabin baggage can disrupt operations, resulting in delays when additional baggage must be checked into the hold at the gate.” We will lessen the risk of interruption by allowing our guests to carry 7kg cabin baggage in one bag, assuring on-time performance and minimising delays.”

Cabin bags must have a maximum width of 56 centimetres, a maximum height of 36 centimetres, and a maximum depth of 23 centimetres, in addition to a maximum weight of 7kg. Passengers travelling with infants may bring one additional cabin bag with the exact maximum dimensions and one stroller, carrycot, or car seat. “If visitors’ cabin baggage exceeds our maximum weight or dimension limits, they will be required to check bags in,” Etihad states in a statement.

This new regulation aligns Etihad with most foreign airlines, which have a 7kg cabin luggage limit. For economy class customers, Qantas, Cathay Pacific, and Singapore Airlines allow one piece of onboard baggage weighing 7kg and measuring 115cm in total.

When it comes to onboard baggage, British Airways is one of the more accommodating airlines, allowing one larger cabin bag with a maximum weight of 23kg, as well as a smaller handbag or laptop-sized bag no larger than 40cm x 30cm x 15cm. The airline states, though, that “during busy flights, you may be required to check-in your larger cabin bag. Make sure to keep your trip documents, valuables, and other necessities, such as spare gadget batteries and power packs, in your smaller luggage.