Ref: KWI/Agts/Circular/05C06
05 March, 2006
Dear All,
Sub: Circular on Baggage
We have been made aware by airport authorities and our handling agents of the
continued carriage of outsized baggage and excess/odd size hand baggage by
passengers traveling to India.
Through our reputed travel agents, and press releases by the Civil Aviation
authorities of Kuwait, guidelines for travel, reconfirmation, baggage rules,
and health or security warnings for overseas travel are constantly advised.
To simplify issues on baggage we reiterate some basics. Universally 20 kgs
are permitted for check-in baggage in Economy, 30 kgs in Executive, and 40kgs
in First class. In the GCC, no single piece can exceed 32kgs, nor be of large
size. In US, Canada, and increasingly other countries adopt 23 kgs limit for a
checked-in piece, within specified dimensions.
Onboard hand baggage is suggested to be within 5 kgs, and restricted to 7 kgs
by weight and dimensions specified. Hand baggage is meant for self-use
medicines, personal sanitary and grooming items, and light reading material,
Hand baggage is not intended for any other use. Large size hand-baggage is not
permitted onboard due safety, security, and convenience of all travelers.
Overloaded, overhead bins for storage have restricted capacity. Passengers are
known to have dropped heavy bags on themselves and co-passengers, thus causing
injury. Heavy stowaway baggage under the seat restricts free movement, and can
prove hazardous in emergencies.
Duty free purchase of toiletries of personal items is a convenience offered by
owners/operators of airports, and not the airlines. All purchases must comply
with DGCA and airline restrictions. Airlines committee has advised DGCA of
oversize items like milk powder and soft-drink mix sold at airports, and is
objectionable. Accordingly airlines are required to retrieve any oversize and
excess hand baggage at the aircraft gate before boarding, and send it as
checked-in luggage. Any excess over 5 kgs is payable by passenger. No argument
or complaint in this regard will be entertained.
No responsibility for the contents of any baggage can be taken by the airline.
If desired, passengers may be kindly advised to seek adequate baggage
insurance well in advance of travel.
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Air India printed timetables, our website www.airindia.in, printed
ticket/boarding card shows the rules, and regulations of carriage of baggage.
During boarding flow process, it is customary for passengers requiring any
attention including odd size or over weight hand baggage to be handled
separately from the regular flow. No offence or inconvenience is desired as
our aim is speedy despatch of the flight for the benefit of all passengers.
We seek your cooperation in keeping the passengers advised on all aspects of
travel. Passengers are encouraged to seek your assistance and verify all
conditions of travel.
An enlightened and cooperative passenger is a delight to our trade.
We look forward to feedback and mutual support at all times.
Wishing you all success!
For AIR INDIA LIMITED
R.Singh
Manager-Kuwait & Cyprus
