Packing for a trip to Addis Ababa or a connecting flight through the Horn of Africa? Understanding the baggage rules before you pack is the best way to avoid stress, and expensive fees, at the airport.
As a Star Alliance member, Ethiopian Airlines offers one of the most generous baggage allowances in the industry.
However, their policies differ significantly depending on whether you are flying to the US, Europe, or within Africa.
Quick Summary: Baggage Policy at a Glance
If you are in a rush, here is the standard allowance for most international long-haul flights (e.g., to/from USA, UK, Europe).
| Travel Class | Carry-On Allowance | Checked Bags (Piece Concept) | Max Weight Per Bag |
| Economy Class | 1 Bag (7 kg / 15 lbs) | 2 Pieces | 23 kg (50 lbs) |
| Cloud Nine (Business) | 2 Bags (7 kg / 15 lbs) | 2 Pieces (or 3*) | 32 kg (70 lbs)* |
| Infant (0-2 years) | 1 Bag (5 kg / 11 lbs) | 1 Piece | 10 kg (22 lbs) |
| Star Alliance Gold | +1 Carry-on | +1 Extra Piece | 23 kg (50 lbs) |
Note: Business Class allowance can vary. On many routes, you are allowed 2 pieces at 32kg each, OR 3 pieces at 23kg each.
Carry-On Baggage Allowance
Ethiopian Airlines is strict regarding cabin luggage to ensure safety and comfort. Your allowance depends on your ticket class.
Economy Class
- Allowance: 1 Carry-on bag.
- Weight Limit: 7 kg (15 lbs).
- Personal Item: You may also bring one personal item (handbag, laptop bag, camera bag) free of charge. This item must fit under the seat in front of you and should not exceed 5 kg (11 lbs).
Business Class (Cloud Nine)
- Allowance: 2 Carry-on bags.
- Weight Limit: 7 kg (15 lbs) per bag.
- Personal Item: 1 personal item (up to 5 kg).
Size Limits:
Dimensions for all carry-on bags must not exceed 23 x 40 x 55 cm (9 x 16 x 22 inches). This includes wheels and handles.
Pro Tip: If your flight is fully booked, gate agents may weigh your carry-on. If it exceeds 7kg, you may be forced to check it and pay an excess baggage fee.
Checked Baggage: Piece vs. Weight Concept
This is where most travelers get confused. Ethiopian Airlines uses two different systems depending on where you are flying.
The Piece Concept (Americas & Europe)
If you are flying to or from the USA, Canada, or Europe, the “Piece Concept” applies. You are limited by the number of bags.
- Economy: 2 pieces, up to 23 kg (50 lbs) each.
- Business: 2 pieces up to 32 kg (70 lbs) each, OR 3 pieces up to 23 kg (50 lbs) each.
- Max Dimensions: The sum of Length + Width + Height must not exceed 158 cm (62 inches).
The Weight Concept (Asia, Middle East & Intra-Africa)
For flights within Africa or to destinations in Asia/Middle East (excluding some specific routes), the “Weight Concept” often applies. You are limited by the total weight of all bags combined, not the number of bags.
- Economy: Total weight of 40 kg (88 lbs). You can split this across multiple bags.
- Business: Total weight of 60 kg (132 lbs).
- Max Weight per single bag: Even if you have a high allowance, no single suitcase can weigh more than 32 kg (70 lbs) for health and safety reasons.
Important: Always check your specific ticket confirmation. If your journey involves a US sector, the US baggage rules usually apply to the entire itinerary.
Excess Baggage Fees (2026 Rates)
If you exceed your free allowance, you will be charged. Fees are cumulative, meaning you could pay for an extra bag and overweight fees.
Extra Piece Charges
For flights to/from the United States (Washington D.C., JFK, Chicago, Newark, Atlanta), the fees are generally:
- Economy: $225.00 USD for each additional piece (up to 23 kg).
- Business: $225.00 USD for each additional piece (up to 32 kg).
- Routes to Asmara: Fees can be higher, around $275.00 USD.
Overweight Charges
If you are in Economy and your bag weighs between 23 kg and 32 kg (51–70 lbs), you will be charged a flat overweight fee.
- Fee: $100.00 USD per bag (one-way).
- Note: Bags over 32 kg (70 lbs) must be shipped as cargo.
Oversize Charges
If your bag exceeds the linear dimensions of 158 cm (62 inches):
- Fee: Approximately $200 – $300 USD depending on the route.
- Bags larger than 203 cm usually require cargo shipping.
Special Allowances & Exceptions
ShebaMiles & Star Alliance Members
Loyalty pays off. If you hold status, you get extra allowance on top of your ticket:
- ShebaMiles Platinum: +1 extra bag (up to 32 kg) OR +32 kg total.
- ShebaMiles Gold / Star Alliance Gold: +1 extra bag (up to 23 kg) OR +20 kg total.
- ShebaMiles Silver: +1 extra bag (up to 23 kg) OR +15 kg total.
Infants (Under 2 Years)
Infants not occupying a seat are entitled to:
- Checked: 1 piece up to 10 kg (22 lbs) (Weight concept) or 23 kg (50 lbs) (Piece concept).
- Carry-on: 1 fully collapsible stroller/pushchair + 1 car seat (Free of charge).
Sports Equipment
Ethiopian Airlines accepts sports equipment (golf bags, skis, bicycles).
- If the equipment is within your free baggage allowance (weight/size), it flies free.
- If it exceeds your allowance, standard excess fees apply.
- Specific rates: Bicycles ($100), Golf Equipment ($100), Surfboards ($200). Always contact the airline 24 hours in advance to reserve space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pool my baggage allowance with my family?
Generally, yes. If you are checking in together on the same booking reference, agents usually allow you to pool the total weight/pieces, provided no single bag exceeds 32 kg.
Does a laptop bag count as my carry-on?
No. Ethiopian Airlines allows a laptop bag as a “personal item” in addition to your 7kg carry-on. However, the total weight of personal items should stay under 5kg.
What is the fee if my bag weighs 25kg in Economy?
Since the limit is 23kg, a 25kg bag is considered overweight. You will be charged the flat overweight fee of $100 USD. It is often cheaper to remove 2kg and put it in your carry-on.
Can I pay for extra baggage online?
Yes. It is highly recommended to pay for extra baggage via the Ethiopian Airlines mobile app or website before you arrive at the airport. Online rates are often discounted compared to airport counter rates.
Are musical instruments allowed in the cabin?
Small instruments (violins, flutes) can be carried as hand luggage if they fit in the overhead bin (max 115 cm total dimension). For larger instruments like cellos, you must purchase an extra seat (Block Seat Baggage).
Final Thoughts
However, the strict weight limits on carry-ons (7kg) and high fees for overweight bags ($100+) can catch travelers off guard.
Recommendation: Always weigh your bags at home before leaving. If you know you will be over the limit, buy your excess baggage allowance online at least 24 hours before your flight to save money.
Disclaimer:Airline policies can change without notice. Always verify the latest details on the official Ethiopian Airlines website before you fly.
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.
