Air China Baggage Policy

When it comes to planning your trip with Air China, understanding the baggage allowance policy is essential to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. This comprehensive guide aims to provide you with all the information you need regarding baggage restrictions, checked baggage allowance, carry-on baggage allowance, handling delayed/damaged/lost baggage, and prohibited dangerous goods. By familiarizing yourself with Air China baggage policy, you can avoid any surprises and make informed decisions before your travel.

What are the baggage restrictions with Air China?

Air China strictly adheres to safety regulations set by international organizations such as the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Passengers are advised to familiarize themselves with Air China Baggage Rules to ensure a smooth and safe travel experience. The following categories of items are not permitted:

Air China prohibits the transport of certain items in baggage due to safety and security reasons. Here is a list of items that are generally restricted or not acceptable as baggage:

• Explosives, including fireworks, flares, and blasting caps
• Compressed gasses, such as propane and butane
• Flammable liquids, like gasoline and lighter fluid
• Oxidizing substances, including bleach and peroxides
• Toxic and infectious substances, such as pesticides and infectious substances

• Radioactive materials
• Corrosive substances, like acids and alkalis
• Magnetized materials and objects
• Other dangerous goods as defined by international regulations

• Items that may result in personal injury or pose a significant risk to aviation safety and orderly transportation:

• Infectious diseases/pathogens
• Sources of fire:
• Power banks and lithium batteries: Batteries with a rated energy greater than 160 Wh are restricted due to safety concerns.
• Electric vehicles powered by lithium batteries: Hoverboards, scooters, and bicycles powered by lithium batteries are not permitted. Please note that separate provisions are in place for electric wheelchairs used by disabled individuals and the lithium batteries used in these devices.
• Alcoholic beverages: Alcoholic beverages with an alcohol content exceeding 70% alcohol by volume (ABV) are not allowed.
• Strongly magnetic materials, items with strong and irritating odors, and items with characteristics that cannot be determined are also prohibited.

• Other restricted items

• Live animals are not permitted as baggage, except for specific cases that are stipulated by Air China (e.g., cats and dogs allowed as pets).
• Items with a strong odor, such as durian fruit, are not acceptable as baggage.
• Baggage that is unsuitable for carriage due to its packaging, shape, weight, size, or nature is restricted.
• There may be items that are prohibited for carriage according to national laws, administrative regulations, or other rules and regulations.
• Self-heating food products, such as self-heating hot pots or “Lazy Hot Pots,” are not permitted.

• Due to safety concerns, Samsung Galaxy Note 7 smartphones are not allowed on Air China flights.

It’s important to be aware of these restrictions under Air China baggage policy and ensure that you do not include any prohibited items in your baggage. 

What are the Size and Weight Restrictions with Air China?

Air China has specific requirements for both checked and carry-on baggage in terms of dimensions and weight. It’s important to adhere to these restrictions to ensure smooth check-in and boarding processes. Here are the Air China checked baggage weight limit and the size restriction – 

• For First Class and Business Class passengers – Each piece of checked baggage must not exceed 158 cm (62 inches) in total dimensions (length + width + height) and 32 kg (70.5 lbs) in weight.

• For Economy Class passengers – Each piece of checked baggage must not exceed 158 cm (62 inches) in total dimensions (length + width + height) and 23 kg (50.5 lbs) in weight.

Please note that the above mentioned Air China baggage weight and dimensions may vary for different routes and travel classes. 

What is Carry-On Baggage Allowance with Air China?

Carry-on baggage is the luggage you can bring on board the aircraft with you. Air China has specific guidelines for carry-on baggage allowance:

• Air China baggage Size and Weight Restrictions – The dimensions and weight limits for carry-on baggage may vary depending on the travel class and the specific flight route. Generally, Air China allows one piece of carry-on baggage per passenger. Here are the general guidelines for Air China carry on baggage limit – 

Passenger Class	Number of Carry-on Baggage	Maximum Weight	Maximum Dimensions (Length x Width x Height)
First Class	2 pieces	Up to 8 kg	55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm
Business Class	2 pieces	Up to 8 kg	55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm
Super Economy Class	1 piece	Up to 5 kg	55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm
Economy Class	1 piece	Up to 5 kg	55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm

It’s important to note that these dimensions and weight limits may vary for different flights and destinations. 

Here are the other points to consider – 

• Passengers are allowed to carry one personal item. Items like handbags, briefcase, small bag,  laptop bag are considered personal items. 
• Passengers traveling with infants can bring infant food and diapers on the flight.
• They are also permitted to bring a portable foldable baby stroller into the cabin, as long as its folded dimensions do not exceed 55 cm x 40 cm x 20 cm.
• Strollers that exceed these dimensions will be transported as checked baggage.
• Passengers with disabilities, injuries, or reduced mobility can bring necessary assistive devices. 

Delayed, Damaged, and Lost Baggage with Air China

When it comes to delayed, damaged, or lost baggage with Air China, the following information is relevant as per Air China baggage policy – 

Delayed Baggage:

• In the event of delayed baggage, passengers are advised to report the delay immediately to the Air China baggage service counter at the arrival airport.
• Air China will make every effort to locate and deliver the delayed baggage to the passenger as soon as possible.
• Passengers may be required to fill out a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) form to provide details about the delayed baggage.
• Air China will keep passengers informed about the status and progress of their delayed baggage.

Damaged Baggage:

• If baggage is received in a damaged condition, passengers should report the damage to the Air China baggage service counter at the arrival airport.
• Passengers may need to fill out a Baggage Damage Report (BDR) form to document the damage.
• Air China will evaluate the extent of the damage and may offer compensation or repair options based on the circumstances.
• It is important to report the damage promptly, preferably before leaving the airport.

Lost Baggage:

• In case of lost baggage, passengers should report the loss to the Air China baggage service counter at the arrival airport.
• Passengers will be required to complete a detailed Missing Baggage Report (MBR) to provide information about the lost items.
• Air China will initiate a thorough search to locate the lost baggage and make every effort to reunite it with the passenger.
• Compensation may be provided for essential items purchased due to the delayed baggage, subject to Air China’s policies.

Contacting Air China:

• Passengers can contact Air China’s baggage service for inquiries and updates regarding delayed, damaged, or lost baggage.
• It is recommended to keep all relevant documents, including baggage tags and receipts, for reference when communicating with Air China.

Please note that the specific procedures, policies, and compensation may vary, and it is advisable to refer to Air China’s official website or contact their customer service for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding delayed, damaged, or lost baggage.

Lost or damaged baggage compensation

Compensation for flights covered by the “Warsaw Convention” is capped at 17 SDR per kilograms of baggage, as per Air China baggage policy. In addition – 

• If real luggage losses are less than this threshold, compensation will be given in accordance with the losses actually suffered. 
• Compensation for unchecked baggage is capped at 332 SDR per person.
• The total compensation limit for checked and unchecked luggage per person is 1288 SDR.

Transits are a breeze with #AirChina’s baggage through-check service. Collect both boarding passes at your first airport and pick up your bags at your final destination. Minimal hassle, maximum efficiency. Check which airports offer this service at https://t.co/DSUUVKh47R pic.twitter.com/2WPgEW8Wfj

— Air China (@airchina) November 4, 2019

Compensation for Domestic flight

The maximum amount of compensation for lost or damaged checked baggage, in whole or in part, 14 USD per kilograms. Add to that – 

• Compensation will be given based on the real worth of the baggage if the value is less than 14 USD  per kilogramme. 
• The maximum compensation per traveler for unchecked baggage is 425 USD.

Time limits

Passengers can file a lost baggage claim up to 2 years from the date of arrival. After that point, you will no longer be able to file a claim for lost luggage.

Being well-informed about Air China baggage allowance policy is crucial for a smooth travel experience. By understanding the baggage restrictions, checked baggage allowance, carry-on baggage allowance, and procedures for delayed/damaged/lost baggage, you can avoid unnecessary inconveniences and make informed decisions before your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions