After months of speculation, rumour and argument (on Internet BBs, at least
), and the obligatory missed deadlines, the new baggage policies have
finally been announced:-
New simpler baggage policies - Major changes announced
British Airways is introducing changes to baggage policies to make them easier for passengers, reduce queues at the airport and to bring them in line with UK Department for Transport recommendations and requirements of the UK’s main airport operator, BAA.
The new policies will bring changes to hand, checked and excess baggage allowances and will be phased in from early July 2006 across the airline’s global network.
Hand baggage allowances … changing from 5 July 2006
The hand baggage policy will be the first to change from 5 July 2006.
All passengers will be able to carry one standard-sized bag and one briefcase, laptop computer bag or equivalent on all flights.
The maximum size of the bag, 56cm x 45cm x 25cm (22in x 18in x 10in) has been set in line with the UK Department for Transport recommendations. Passengers must be able to lift their bag unaided into the aircraft overhead locker.
The briefcase, laptop computer bag or equivalent must fit under the seat in front.
Free checked baggage allowances
A single allowance system based on the number of bags that can be checked in will be introduced from 11 October 2006.FIRST, Club World, Club Europe and World Traveller Plus
Passengers will be able to check two bags into the aircraft hold free of charge.
World Traveller*, Euro Traveller and UK Domestic
Passengers will be able to check one bag into the aircraft hold free of charge.
> Infants will be allowed to check one bag, plus a collapsible baby buggy, into the aircraft hold free of charge in all classes on all routes.
> For any connecting journey, the most generous allowance will apply.
> Passengers will be able to carry one piece of sporting equipment free of charge in addition to their checked baggage allowance.
> A maximum bag weight of 23kgs (50lbs) will apply to all bags.
*World Traveller passengers travelling to or from the US, Canada, Caribbean, Nigeria, Brazil and Mexico will continue to be allowed two checked bags in line with the local government regulations.
Excess baggage charges
Excess baggage charges will be standardised across the network from 11 October 2006.
All baggage in excess of free checked baggage allowances will be charged at a fixed fee depending on the length of the journey.
From 12 July 2006, passengers who pre-pay online for their excess baggage will receive a 20% discount on airport charges.
Where passengers are transferring flights, a single charge based on the longest flight will apply.
Maximum weight and size
British Airways will not accept any item of baggage that weighs more than 23kgs (50lbs) or oversized items exceeding 2.4m x 0.75m x 0.75m (94in x 29in x 29in).
Advance notification is required 24 hours before departure for exceptional items that weigh between 23kgs - 45Kgs * (50 - 90lbs) and which cannot be repacked e.g. musical instruments, electrical wheelchairs, some sporting items, TV news cameras, commercial spares.
Pets
British Airways will no longer be able to carry pets as baggage. In future, these will only be carried as cargo.