Airports' Carry-On Weight Checks: What To Know

It's a common worry for travellers: will my carry-on luggage be weighed at the airport? The answer is that it depends on the airline and the airport. Most major domestic airlines don't impose a weight limit on carry-on bags, but several international airlines do have weight restrictions. Some travellers report that their carry-on luggage has been weighed, while others say it hasn't. It seems that budget airlines and those that charge for carry-on luggage are more likely to weigh bags. It's also more likely that your luggage will be weighed on connecting flights, particularly in the Middle East. If your luggage is particularly heavy, you may struggle to lift it into the overhead bin, so be prepared to check it in if necessary.

Carry-on weight checks depend on the airline and airport

Whether or not your carry-on luggage will be weighed depends on the airline you're flying with and the airport you're flying from.

Some airlines, like American Airlines, don't impose weight restrictions on carry-on luggage. However, others, like Allegiant Air, do have weight limits. Many airlines that charge for carry-on luggage tend to be stricter about enforcing size limitations.

Some airports are stricter than others when it comes to carry-on weight checks. For example, one source mentions that carry-on luggage is rarely weighed at Gatwick Airport, while another source mentions that luggage is often weighed at Sharjah Airport, with overweight luggage incurring a £50 fee.

To avoid any issues, it's best to check the policies of the specific airline and airport you're dealing with. Additionally, it's a good idea to keep within the specified weight limits to avoid any potential problems.

Weight checks are more common for checked bags

While carry-on luggage weight checks are not unheard of, they are less common than checked bag weight checks. This is because most major domestic airlines do not impose a weight limit on carry-on bags. However, several international airlines have weight restrictions for carry-on luggage and, in some cases, personal items.

For example, American Airlines does not list weight restrictions for carry-on luggage, but it does state that passengers should be able to lift items that go in an overhead bin. On the other hand, Aeroméxico allows a combined weight of 22 pounds for carry-on luggage and personal items for international flights or basic fare flights within Mexico.

Ultimately, the likelihood of your carry-on bag being weighed depends on a variety of factors, including the airline, the airport, and the flight route. It is always a good idea to check the specific rules and restrictions of the airline you are flying with to avoid any unexpected fees or delays.

Carry-on weight limits are rarely enforced

Varying Enforcement Across Airlines and Airports

It's important to recognize that carry-on weight enforcement can vary significantly depending on the airline and the airport. Some airlines, such as Australian airlines, are known for strictly enforcing weight limits for carry-on luggage. In contrast, other airlines may be more lenient, with reports suggesting that Turkish Airlines, Lufthansa, Air Morocco, and Iceland Air rarely weigh carry-on bags. Additionally, enforcement may differ based on the specific airport and even the staff on duty.

Weight Checks are Less Common than Size Checks

While weight checks are less common, size checks for carry-on luggage are more frequent. Most airlines provide sizer devices near the gate, allowing passengers to ensure their carry-on bags comply with the size restrictions. These sizers usually have two sections, one for the carry-on bag and the other for the smaller personal item. If your bag fits within the sizer, you're typically good to go. However, if it doesn't fit, you may need to check your bag.

Strategies to Avoid Weight Enforcement

To minimize the chances of your carry-on weight being an issue, consider the following strategies:

• Check-in online: If you check in online and don't use checked luggage, there's a lower likelihood of your carry-on weight being checked.
• Keep within limits: Adhering to the specified weight limits is the most reliable way to avoid issues. While some airlines may be lenient with minor excess weight, it's not worth the risk, especially with strict airlines.
• Use soft bags: Opting for soft bags or backpacks can provide more flexibility since they can sometimes be squeezed into the sizing devices.
• Avoid low-cost carriers: Low-cost carriers, such as Jetstar, are generally more stringent with weight and size limits, so choosing a standard airline may reduce the chances of enforcement.
• Consider flight load: If the flight is expected to be full, there may be more scrutiny of carry-on luggage to ensure there's enough space in the overhead bins.
• Distribute weight: If traveling with a companion, distribute the weight across your carry-on bags to reduce the likelihood of either bag being overweight.
• Be mindful of connecting flights: Some travelers have reported issues with connecting flights, particularly in the Middle East, where carry-on bags are sometimes weighed.
• Prepare for variability: Enforcement can vary based on staff and other factors, so it's always a good idea to be prepared and not exceed the weight limits.

Weight Limits by Airline

To help you plan, here are the weight limits for carry-on luggage for some popular airlines:

• American Airlines: No weight restrictions.
• Delta Air Lines: No overall weight limit, but specific weight restrictions for Singapore (7 kg), Beijing (10 kg), and Shanghai (10 kg).
• Frontier: Carry-on bags must weigh less than 35 pounds.
• JetBlue: No weight limits.
• Southwest: No weight limits.
• United Airlines: No published weight limits.

Remember to check the specific regulations for your chosen airline, as weight limits can vary.

Weight checks are more common for hand luggage on budget airlines

Whether or not airport staff will check the weight of your hand luggage depends on the airline you're flying with and the specific circumstances of your flight. While it's not common for airlines to weigh hand luggage, it's also not unheard of. Budget airlines, in particular, are known for their strict adherence to hand luggage policies and are more likely to weigh your bags to ensure passengers comply with their weight limits.

For example, Ryanair, a low-cost carrier, requires passengers to purchase an add-on if they want to bring a larger carry-on bag. EasyJet, another budget airline, has been observed weighing passengers' carry-on bags at the boarding gate. Similarly, Wizz Air, Peach Air, and Jetstar Asia have been known to weigh carry-on bags.

In contrast, more premium airlines might be more lenient, not checking the weight of hand luggage as rigorously. For instance, while British Airways has a 23kg limit for carry-on bags, passengers report that they only check the dimensions and not the weight.

To avoid any issues, it's a good idea to be mindful of the weight of your hand luggage, especially when flying with budget carriers. Check your airline's hand luggage policy before you pack to save yourself any unexpected fees or hassles at the airport.

Weight limits are rarely enforced for domestic flights

Weight limits for carry-on luggage are rarely enforced for domestic flights. This is because most major domestic airlines do not impose a weight limit on carry-on bags. However, several international airlines have weight restrictions for carry-on luggage and, in some cases, personal items.

The carry-on size limit for many airlines is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, and passengers are typically allowed to bring one carry-on bag in addition to a personal item. A carry-on bag is usually stored in the overhead bin, while a personal item should fit under the seat in front of the passenger.

While weight limits for carry-on luggage are not strictly enforced on domestic flights, it is important to note that there may be additional carry-on restrictions at specific airports or on certain planes. Additionally, the weight of carry-on luggage can impact the weight distribution within the plane, which is crucial for maintaining balance during flight.

Some airlines, particularly low-cost carriers, may enforce carry-on weight limits and weigh cabin luggage. However, full-service airlines rarely bother to weigh carry-on bags. Ultimately, it is up to the airline's discretion to enforce weight limits for carry-on luggage, and passengers should refer to their chosen airline's policies for specific guidelines.

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