Understanding the baggage policies of major African airlines is essential for avoiding extra fees and ensuring a smooth travel experience. Here’s an overview of the baggage policies for some of the top airlines operating in Africa:
1. Ethiopian Airlines
- Checked Baggage:
- Economy Class: 23 kg (1 piece)
- Business Class: 32 kg (2 pieces)
- Carry-On Baggage:
- Economy Class: 7 kg
- Business Class: 7 kg
- Special Items: Ethiopian Airlines allows special baggage such as sports equipment, musical instruments, and more, often with an additional fee.
2. Kenya Airways
- Checked Baggage:
- Economy Class: 23 kg (1 piece)
- Business Class: 32 kg (2 pieces)
- Carry-On Baggage:
- Economy Class: 7 kg
- Business Class: 12 kg
- Excess Baggage: Fees apply for baggage exceeding the allowed weight or number of pieces.
3. South African Airways
- Checked Baggage:
- Economy Class: 23 kg (1 piece)
- Business Class: 32 kg (2 pieces)
- Carry-On Baggage:
- Economy Class: 8 kg
- Business Class: 8 kg
- Special Baggage: Items like sports equipment and musical instruments are allowed but may incur extra fees depending on size and weight.
4. Royal Air Maroc
- Checked Baggage:
- Economy Class: 23 kg (1 piece)
- Business Class: 32 kg (2 pieces)
- Carry-On Baggage:
- Economy Class: 10 kg
- Business Class: 10 kg
- Excess Baggage: Charges are applicable for extra baggage or exceeding weight limits.
5. Air Mauritius
- Checked Baggage:
- Economy Class: 23 kg (1 piece)
- Business Class: 30 kg (2 pieces)
- Carry-On Baggage:
- Economy Class: 7 kg
- Business Class: 7 kg
- Additional Fees: Fees apply for baggage exceeding the allowance.
6. RwandAir
- Checked Baggage:
- Economy Class: 23 kg (1 piece)
- Business Class: 32 kg (2 pieces)
- Carry-On Baggage:
- Economy Class: 7 kg
- Business Class: 7 kg
- Excess Baggage: Charges for extra weight or additional pieces are applied.
7. EgyptAir
- Checked Baggage:
- Economy Class: 23 kg (1 piece)
- Business Class: 32 kg (2 pieces)
- Carry-On Baggage:
- Economy Class: 7 kg
- Business Class: 7 kg
- Special Items: EgyptAir allows special baggage like sports equipment and musical instruments for a fee.
8. Air Peace (Nigeria)
- Checked Baggage:
- Economy Class: 23 kg (1 piece)
- Business Class: 32 kg (2 pieces)
- Carry-On Baggage:
- Economy Class: 6 kg
- Business Class: 8 kg
- Excess Baggage: Additional fees apply for excess baggage.
9. FlySafair (South Africa)
- Checked Baggage:
- Economy Class: 20 kg (1 piece)
- Business Class: 30 kg (2 pieces)
- Carry-On Baggage:
- 7 kg (for all classes)
- Excess Baggage: FlySafair charges fees for any baggage exceeding the weight limit.
10. Air Tanzania
- Checked Baggage:
- Economy Class: 20 kg (1 piece)
- Business Class: 30 kg (2 pieces)
- Carry-On Baggage:
- Economy Class: 7 kg
- Business Class: 7 kg
- Excess Baggage: Air Tanzania charges for excess baggage beyond the allowed limits.
General Baggage Tips:
- Weight Limits: Most African airlines allow checked baggage of 23 kg in economy and 30-32 kg in business. For carry-on baggage, the standard weight limit is 7-10 kg, depending on the airline and class of service.
- Excess Baggage Fees: Be prepared to pay for any baggage exceeding the allowed weight or number of pieces. These fees can vary greatly between airlines.
- Special Items: If you’re traveling with special items like sports equipment, musical instruments, or large luggage, check with the airline for specific policies and potential extra charges.
- Budget Airlines: For budget airlines, be especially mindful of baggage fees, as they may charge separately for both checked and carry-on luggage.
Always check the airline’s specific baggage policy on their website before traveling, as rules can change and vary based on your route and class of service.