Traveling with Air India has evolved significantly under its new management.
With the introduction of tiered fare families (Value, Classic, and Flex) and updated international regulations, knowing exactly what you can pack is crucial to avoiding expensive surprises at the airport.
Quick Reference: Air India Baggage Allowance 2026
If you are in a rush, here is the essential snapshot of what you can carry based on your cabin class and route.
| Feature | Domestic Flights (Economy) | International (to/from US & Canada) | International (to/from Europe/UK) |
| Cabin Baggage | 1 Bag (7kg / 15lb) | 1 Bag (7kg / 15lb) | 1 Bag (7kg / 15lb) |
| Personal Item | 1 Item (Handbag/Laptop) | 1 Item (Handbag/Laptop) | 1 Item (Handbag/Laptop) |
| Checked Bags | 15kg – 25kg (Depends on fare) | 2 Pieces (23kg / 50lb each) | 2 Pieces (23kg / 50lb each) |
| Max Dimensions | 158 cm (L+W+H) | 158 cm (L+W+H) | 158 cm (L+W+H) |
Cabin Baggage (Carry-On) Policy
Air India is strict regarding cabin baggage dimensions and weight to ensure on-time departures.
Weight and Size Limits
- Economy & Premium Economy: 1 bag up to 7 kg (15 lb).
- Business & First Class: 1 bag up to 10 kg (22 lb).
- Dimensions: Height 55 cm (21 in) x Length 40 cm (15 in) x Width 20 cm (7 in). The total combined dimensions must not exceed 115 cm (45 in).
The “Personal Item” Rule
In addition to your main carry-on, you are permitted one personal item that must fit under the seat in front of you. This includes:
- Laptop bag
- Lady’s handbag
- Camera bag
- Infant bag (with food/nappies)
Pro Tip: If your carry-on exceeds the weight limit, you will likely be charged an excess fee or forced to check the bag. For domestic flights, this fee is approximately INR 3,000 for overweight cabin bags.
Checked Baggage Policy
Air India uses two different systems for checked luggage depending on where you are flying: the Weight Concept and the Piece Concept.
Domestic Flights (Weight Concept)
For flights within India, your allowance is determined by the “Fare Family” you booked. This is a major change from the old flat-rate rules.
- Comfort / Value Fare: 15 kg
- Classic Fare: 20 kg
- Flex Fare: 25 kg
- Business Class: 30kg – 40kg (depending on fare tier)
- First Class: 40 kg
International Flights (Piece Concept)
If you are flying to/from the USA, Canada, UK, Europe, or Israel, Air India generally applies the Piece Concept.
- Economy: 2 Pieces, up to 23 kg (50 lb) each.
- Business / First: 2 Pieces, up to 32 kg (70 lb) each.
Important: The total dimension (Length + Width + Height) of each bag must not exceed 158 cm (62 in).
International Flights (Weight Concept)
For destinations in Asia (Singapore, Bangkok, Hong Kong) and Australia, the weight concept usually applies:
- Economy: 20kg to 30kg (route dependent).
- Business: 35kg to 40kg.
- Note: Always check your specific ticket, as “Flex” fares often offer higher weight limits than “Value” promo fares.
Excess Baggage Fees
If you pack more than your allowance, excess baggage charges will apply. These fees are steep, so pre-booking is highly recommended.
Domestic Excess Baggage
- Standard Charge: Approximately INR 600 per kg (plus GST).
- Pre-paid: Buying extra weight online 6+ hours before departure can save you up to 20% compared to airport counter rates.
International Excess Baggage
Fees vary by zone. For flights between India and the US/UK:
- Overweight Bag (23kg – 32kg): Approx. USD 130.
- Extra Piece (1 additional bag): Approx. USD 240.
- Oversized Bag (>158 cm): Approx. USD 130.
Note: You cannot check in a single bag weighing more than 32 kg (70 lb) due to health and safety regulations for baggage handlers.
Special Baggage & Exceptions
Traveling with Infants
- Infant (under 2 years): You are allowed one additional piece of checked baggage weighing up to 10 kg (22 lb), plus one collapsible stroller or carry-cot, free of charge.
Sports Equipment
Golf Kits
Can usually be carried as part of your checked allowance. If it exceeds the allowance, a 50% discount on standard excess baggage rates often applies (policy subject to route).
Musical Instruments
Small instruments (violins) can be carried as cabin luggage if they fit in the overhead bin. Large instruments (cellos) require purchasing an extra seat or must be checked as fragile baggage.
Maharaja Club / Star Alliance Members
- Gold & Platinum Members: You generally receive an additional 20 kg (on weight concept flights) or 1 additional piece (on piece concept flights) regardless of your cabin class.
5. Prohibited Items (Do Not Pack)
To clear security quickly, ensure these items are not in your carry-on:
- Power banks (Must be in carry-on, NOT checked).
- Liquids > 100ml.
- Sharp objects (scissors, Swiss Army knives).
- Copra (Dry Coconut) is strictly prohibited in both checked and cabin bags due to fire risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a laptop bag included in the 7kg hand baggage limit?
No, generally your laptop bag is considered a “personal item” and is allowed in addition to your 7kg hand luggage, provided it is slim and fits under the seat.
However, if the flight is very full, staff may weigh both combined.
What happens if my bag is 1 kg overweight?
Air India staff can be strict. While some agents may allow a 1kg grace, it is not an official policy. You should expect to pay the per-kg excess fee or remove items.
Does Air India charge for baby strollers?
No, a collapsible stroller or pram is carried free of charge for passengers traveling with an infant.
How much is the fee for an extra bag to the USA?
If you have already used your 2-piece allowance, a 3rd bag will typically cost around USD 240 (approx. INR 20,000) one way.
Final Thoughts
If you think you will exceed the limit, pre-book extra weight via the Air India website or mobile app at least 24 hours before you fly to save money.
Safe travels!
Grace Turner is a travel researcher with 5+ years of experience analyzing airline rules and global travel regulations. She specializes in simplifying complex airline policies to help travelers avoid extra fees and fly with confidence. Her work focuses on accuracy, clarity, and up to date information across international carriers.
