When traveling within India, understanding the domestic baggage allowance on Air India flights can make your journey much smoother. Whether you are flying for business or leisure, knowing what you can carry, how much it should weigh, and the policies for checked and cabin baggage will help you avoid last-minute surprises at the airport. Air India, as the country’s flag carrier, provides a generous baggage policy that varies depending on travel class, route, and passenger type. This guide explains the details of Air India’s domestic baggage allowance and what you need to know before you pack for your next trip.
Overview of Air India Domestic Baggage Allowance
Air India offers different baggage allowances for passengers traveling in Economy Class, Business Class, and First Class. These allowances apply to all domestic flights operated by Air India within India. In addition to the standard baggage limits, special allowances may apply for frequent flyers, students, or members of certain loyalty programs.
Domestic baggage allowance includes two main categories checked baggage and cabin (hand) baggage. Checked baggage is the luggage stored in the aircraft’s hold, while cabin baggage is carried onboard by the passenger.
Checked Baggage Allowance
The checked baggage allowance on Air India’s domestic flights depends on the class of travel. Each passenger must ensure that their checked bags meet the airline’s weight and size requirements. Exceeding these limits may result in excess baggage fees.
Economy Class
Passengers traveling in Economy Class are allowed to check in up to 15 kilograms of luggage free of charge on most domestic routes. This standard allowance covers all fares unless the ticket specifies otherwise. The total dimensions (length + width + height) of each bag should not exceed 158 centimeters (62 inches).
Business Class
Business Class travelers enjoy a higher baggage allowance, with up to 25 kilograms permitted on domestic flights. The same size limitation applies, and passengers may divide the weight into one or two bags as long as the combined total remains within the allowed limit.
First Class
Passengers flying First Class on Air India’s domestic routes have an allowance of up to 30 kilograms. This is ideal for travelers who need to carry extra items such as business materials, gifts, or personal belongings.
Infants and Children
Infants not occupying a separate seat are entitled to a baggage allowance of 10 kilograms on domestic flights. In addition, one fully collapsible stroller or infant carrying basket is permitted free of charge. For children with their own seat, the standard allowance of their travel class applies.
Cabin Baggage Allowance
Cabin baggage, also known as hand luggage, refers to the items passengers carry inside the aircraft cabin. Air India sets specific limits to ensure safety and comfort during the flight.
Economy Class Cabin Baggage
Passengers in Economy Class can carry one piece of cabin baggage weighing up to 8 kilograms. The dimensions should not exceed 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm. This includes handles, pockets, and wheels. The bag must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Business and First Class Cabin Baggage
Travelers in Business or First Class may carry one cabin bag weighing up to 12 kilograms. They are also allowed one personal item, such as a laptop bag, handbag, or small briefcase, provided it can be safely stowed under the seat.
Additional Personal Items
In addition to the main cabin bag, passengers are permitted to bring small personal items like
- A handbag or purse
- A coat, shawl, or blanket
- A laptop or camera bag
- A pair of crutches or walking stick
- Reading material for the flight
All items must comply with the airline’s safety and size regulations to ensure a smooth boarding process.
Special Baggage Allowances
Air India offers extra allowances and benefits for certain categories of passengers and situations. These include frequent flyers, students, defense personnel, and passengers carrying sports or musical equipment.
Flying Returns Members
Members of Air India’s frequent flyer program, known as Flying Returns, enjoy additional baggage privileges depending on their membership tier. Silver Edge, Golden Edge, and Maharaja Club members may receive an extra baggage allowance ranging from 10 to 20 kilograms, depending on their status and route.
Students
Students traveling on domestic routes with valid identification may receive additional baggage benefits. Some promotional fares or student offers allow up to 25 kilograms in Economy Class, though this varies based on ticket type and promotional terms.
Defense and Armed Forces Personnel
Serving members of the Indian Armed Forces and their families may qualify for increased baggage allowance on domestic flights. Typically, this includes up to 25 kilograms in Economy Class, subject to proof of service and applicable fare conditions.
Sports and Musical Equipment
Passengers carrying sports gear or musical instruments must pack these items carefully. If the item fits within the checked baggage allowance and size limits, it can be transported free of charge. Oversized or overweight equipment may incur additional fees, depending on weight and dimensions.
Excess Baggage Charges
If a passenger exceeds the free baggage allowance, Air India applies an excess baggage fee. The rate is usually calculated per kilogram over the allowed weight. On domestic routes, the average charge ranges between ₹500 and ₹600 per extra kilogram, though rates may vary by route or fare type.
Passengers can pre-purchase excess baggage online before the flight, which often provides a discount compared to paying at the airport counter. Prepaid baggage options can be booked during ticket purchase or later via the airline’s booking management system.
Baggage Rules for Codeshare and Alliance Flights
When traveling on a domestic route that involves a connecting international flight or a codeshare service, the baggage allowance might differ. In such cases, the allowance of the marketing or operating carrier applies, depending on the ticket. It’s important to check the conditions stated in your booking confirmation to avoid confusion at the airport.
Prohibited and Restricted Items
Air India maintains strict guidelines on what passengers can carry in checked and cabin baggage. Prohibited items include explosives, flammable liquids, and weapons. Sharp objects such as scissors or knives should be packed in checked baggage, not carried in the cabin. Electronic devices containing lithium batteries must comply with airline safety standards and are often restricted to hand luggage.
Passengers are encouraged to review the airline’s baggage safety list before traveling to ensure compliance with security regulations.
Tips for Hassle-Free Travel
Following a few simple tips can make your Air India domestic journey more comfortable and stress-free
- Weigh your bags at home before heading to the airport.
- Use sturdy luggage with clear identification tags.
- Keep valuable items, medications, and travel documents in your cabin bag.
- Arrive early for check-in, especially if carrying oversized or special baggage.
- Confirm your baggage allowance when booking to avoid unexpected fees.
Air India’s domestic baggage allowance is designed to accommodate the needs of travelers across all classes while maintaining safety and efficiency. Economy passengers can carry up to 15 kilograms of checked baggage, while Business and First Class travelers enjoy higher limits. Cabin baggage rules are straightforward, and additional privileges exist for students, frequent flyers, and defense personnel. Understanding these policies in advance helps ensure a smooth travel experience and prevents extra charges at the airport. By following Air India’s baggage guidelines, passengers can travel comfortably and confidently within India’s skies.