In a move to streamline air travel and enhance security, India has introduced a stringent new cabin baggage policy for both domestic and international passengers. This shift, spearheaded by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), aims to reduce congestion at security checkpoints and expedite the boarding process. Here's a detailed look at these new regulations, exemptions, and definitions relevant to travelers.
Earlier, You can now carry only one cabin bag, one laptop bag, or one handbag on flights in and out of India. A second bag must be checked in. Although this policy was amended two years ago, it wasn't enforced until now. The BCAS and CISF have instructed airlines to implement this rule immediately.
Is the New One-Cabin-Bag Policy for Only Domestic Passengers?
No, the new one-cabin-bag policy applies to both domestic and international flights. Passengers are now restricted to carrying only one piece of hand luggage, regardless of their travel class or destination. This regulation seeks to manage the increasing passenger volumes at Indian airports more efficiently.The Revised Hand Baggage Rules
Under the new policy: Passengers are allowed one piece of hand luggage with a maximum weight of 7 kg for economy and premium economy class, and 10 kg for business and first class.
The dimensions of the cabin bag must not exceed 55 cm in height, 40 cm in length, and 20 cm in width.
Any additional luggage beyond this limit must be checked in, potentially incurring extra baggage fees for exceeding size or weight limits.
Exemptions: Travelers who booked their tickets before May 4, 2024, are exempt from the new weight restrictions. They can carry up to 8 kg in economy, 10 kg in premium economy, and 12 kg in business or first class.
Definitions of Key Terms
Laptop Bag: A laptop bag is specifically designed to carry a laptop computer. It typically features padded compartments to protect the device. In the context of the new baggage policy, if a laptop is carried within this one permitted piece of cabin luggage, it doesn't count as an additional item. However, carrying an extra laptop bag alongside your cabin bag would not be allowed under the one-bag rule.Handbag: A handbag, sometimes referred to as a purse or personal bag, is a smaller bag used to carry personal items like wallets, phones, makeup, or travel documents. Unlike a cabin bag, which has strict size and weight limits, a handbag under these new rules must fit under the seat in front of you and not weigh more than 3 kg. However, this personal item must be part of or within the one allowed cabin bag; you cannot carry it as an additional piece of luggage.
Impact on Travelers
This policy has been met with mixed reactions. On one hand, it aims to reduce chaos at airport security, potentially speeding up the process for everyone. On the other hand, it requires travelers to be more strategic about what they pack in their cabin luggage.
Travelers are encouraged to pack efficiently, combining all necessary items into one bag to avoid additional fees or the inconvenience of checking in extra luggage at the last minute. It also means reconsidering travel essentials and perhaps leaning more towards digital documentation to save space.
The new cabin baggage policy in India represents a significant shift towards more regulated air travel, focusing on safety, efficiency, and speed. While it might pose initial challenges for passengers used to carrying multiple bags, it's a step towards smoother airport operations. As travelers adapt to these rules, airlines and airport authorities will need to ensure clear communication to avoid confusion and enhance the travel experience. Remember, these guidelines are subject to change, so checking with your airline for the most current information before your journey is advisable.
