'One cabin bag' rule in India: The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security recently proposed new restrictions for hand luggage on flights, a significant reform aimed at simplifying air travel while enhancing security. Passengers would be allowed to bring only one handbag or cabin bag onboard the aeroplane, whether travelling within the country or internationally. The government is implementing this change as part of its efforts to boost security and regulate the growing number of passengers at airports in India and abroad. Given the increased frequency of air travel, to improve airport operations and decrease traffic congestion during security inspections, BCAS and the Central Industrial Security Force have decided to implement stricter hand baggage restrictions. The new restrictions prohibit travellers from bringing more than one bag inside the cabin. All bags, excluding the designated handbag, must now be checked in. Airlines like IndiGo and Air India have updated their baggage policies to conform with the new requirements. What are the new in-hand/cabin flight baggage? i. According to the new rule, only one handbag weighing within seven kilograms (7 kg) is permitted, with all additional luggage to be checked in. ii. The handbag's dimensions cannot exceed 55 cm (21.6 inches) in height, 40 cm (15.7 inches) in length, and 20 cm (7.8 inches) in width. iii. If passengers' hand luggage exceeds the weight or size restrictions, they may be charged extra baggage fees. iv. Passengers who purchased their tickets before May 4, 2024, are exempt from the new weight constraints, which were formerly 8 kg for economy class, 10 kg for premium economy, and 12 kg for first and business class.
