The Complete Guide to Ethiopian Airlines Baggage Allowance

• Understanding Ethiopian Airlines' baggage policies is key to avoiding fees for excess or oversized luggage. This comprehensive guide explains Ethiopian Airlines' carry-on, checked baggage, and other luggage allowances based on your destination and fare class.
• Read on to learn about baggage size and weight limits, fees for extra bags, special luggage like sports equipment or musical instruments, and policies for delayed/damaged baggage claims. Plus tips for avoiding baggage fees.

Ethiopian Airlines Baggage Allowance and Policy Overview

• Ethiopian Airlines offers a free cabin baggage allowance and checked baggage allowance based on your class of travel and destination. Exceeding the free limits will incur extra baggage fees.

• Key points:

• All passengers get 1 carry-on and 1 personal item

• Checked bags: Weight limits 70-100 lbs, size limits apply

• Economy gets 1-2 free checked bags based on route

• Business gets 2-3 free checked bags based on route

• Fees for extra, oversized, overweight bags

• Understanding the size and weight restrictions for carry-on and checked luggage is crucial. Read Ethiopian Airlines' baggage rules carefully and use their calculator to estimate fees.

Snapshot of Ethiopian Airlines Baggage Policy

• Here is a quick overview of Ethiopian Airlines' baggage allowances:

• Carry-On Baggage

• 1 carry-on bag up to 18 lbs (8 kg)

• 1 personal item like purse or laptop

• Checked Baggage

• Economy Class

• Within Africa: 1 bag up to 33 lbs (15 kg)

• Europe flights: 2 bags up to 50 lbs (23 kg) each

• US/Canada flights: 2 bags up to 50 lbs each

• All other international: 1 bag up to 50 lbs

• Business Class

• All destinations: 2-3 bags up to 70 lbs (32 kg) each

• Infants get a separate allowance of 1 checked bag up to 22 lbs.

• Excess weight/size and special items incur fees.

Ethiopian Airlines Carry-On Baggage Allowance

• Ethiopian Airlines permits all passengers to carry on 1 bag and 1 personal item free of charge.

• Carry-On Baggage Rules

• Your carry-on bag must comply with the following size and weight limits:

• Maximum dimensions - 17 x 15 x 8 inches (43 x 38 x 20 cm)

• Maximum weight - 18 lbs (8 kg)

• Personal items like purses, laptop bags, or small backpacks must fit under the seat in front.

• Overweight or oversized carry-on bags will be checked at the gate for a fee. Make sure your carry-on complies with size limits printed on signs and check-in counters. Using the airline's size checker is recommended.

• Having more than 1 carry-on bag or oversized personal item will also incur gate check fees when boarding.

Ethiopian Airlines Checked Baggage Allowance

• Checked baggage refers to luggage you check-in at the counter to go in the hold. The free checked baggage allowance with Ethiopian Airlines depends on your class of service and destination.

• Economy Class Checked Baggage

• The free checked baggage allowance flying economy class on Ethiopian Airlines is:

• Within Africa: 1 bag up to 33 lbs (15 kg)

• Europe/Asia: 2 bags up to 50 lbs (23 kg) each

• North America: 2 bags up to 50 lbs each

• All other international routes: 1 bag up to 50 lbs

• Business Class Checked Baggage

• Business class passengers receive a larger free checked baggage allowance:

• Africa flights: 2 bags up to 70 lbs (32 kg) each

• Europe/Asia/North America: 3 bags up to 70 lbs each

• Other international routes: 2 bags up to 70 lbs each

Infant Free Baggage Allowance

• Infants not occupying a seat have an allowance of 1 checked bag up to 22 lbs (10 kg). This is in addition to the accompanying adult's free baggage.

Excess Baggage Fees

• Charges apply if you exceed the standard free checked baggage limits with Ethiopian Airlines:

• Extra bags: $200 for 3rd bag, $300 for 4th bag, $400 for 5th+ bag

• Overweight bags: $200 for 51-70 lbs, $300 for 71-100 lbs

• Oversize bags: $200

• Excess weight is $400 per extra 10 kg over free limits

• Carry-on bags over 18 lbs will be checked for a $200 fee at the gate. Personal items that don't fit underseat are $100 at the gate.

Ethiopian Airlines Hand Luggage Allowance

• Ethiopian Airlines, like many other airlines, has specific rules and allowances for hand luggage or carry-on baggage. These allowances can vary depending on the class of service and the route you are traveling. Below are general guidelines for Ethiopian Airlines' hand luggage allowance:

• Economy Class:

• Passengers in Economy Class are typically allowed one piece of hand luggage.

• The maximum weight limit for this carry-on bag is usually around 7 kg (15 lbs).

• The dimensions of the carry-on bag should generally not exceed 55 cm x 35 cm x 25 cm (21.5 in x 13.5 in x 9.5 in).

• Business Class:

• Passengers traveling in Business Class often have a more generous hand luggage allowance.

• They are typically allowed one or two pieces of hand luggage, depending on the route and fare class.

• The maximum weight limit for each piece of carry-on baggage is usually around 7 kg (15 lbs).

• The dimensions for each piece should generally not exceed 55 cm x 35 cm x 25 cm (21.5 in x 13.5 in x 9.5 in).

• Special Items:

• In addition to your standard hand luggage, Ethiopian Airlines may allow passengers to bring certain items such as a laptop, handbag, or small personal item. These items are usually not counted as part of your carry-on baggage allowance.

• It's important to note that these rules and allowances may be subject to change, and they can also vary based on the specific aircraft and route you are flying. It's advisable to check the Ethiopian Airlines website or contact their customer service for the most up-to-date information on hand luggage allowances for your specific flight.

Ethiopian Airlines Sports Equipment Policy

• Sports items like golf clubs, bicycles, surfboards can be transported as checked baggage on Ethiopian Airlines within the standard allowances and fees.

• Special equipment counts as one checked bag. If exceeding the free luggage limits, excess and oversize charges will apply based on total weight. Certain equipment may need to be packed properly in boxes.

• Notify the airline in advance when traveling with special items. Additional insurance may be recommended.

Excess Baggage for Sports Equipment

• Sports equipment is subject to excess baggage charges if oversize, overweight, or exceeds the number of free checked bags permitted in your class of service.

• The excess fees for sports gear are:

• Golf clubs: $200 for bag over free allowance

• Bicycles: $200 oversize fee

• Surfboards: $200 oversize fee

• Ski/snowboard gear: Standard overweight bag charges

• Boxing of items may be required for safe transport.

Especially Large and Heavy Pieces of Baggage

• For especially large and heavy pieces of baggage that exceed the standard size and weight limits, Ethiopian Airlines may have specific guidelines and fees. It's essential to contact the airline in advance to inquire about the handling and transportation of such items. Oversized or overweight baggage may incur additional charges, and advance arrangements may be necessary to ensure smooth travel with these items.

• Ethiopian Airlines charges additional fees for excessively large or heavy checked bags based on total weight:

• Oversize Bags - $200 per oversize bag

• Overweight 51-70 lbs - $200

• Overweight 71-100 lbs - $300

• Excess Weight Fees - $400 charged per extra 10 kg over the free baggage allowance

• Careful weighing of luggage and adhering to size limits is advised to minimize costly overage fees. Passengers may be required to repack oversized/overweight bags before acceptance.

Ethiopian Airlines Musical Instruments Policy

• Small musical instruments like violins or ukuleles can be carried on board if they fit in overhead bins or under the seats.

• Larger instruments like cellos or guitars will need to be checked but count as part of your standard baggage allowance. If instruments cause bags to exceed the free limits, oversize and overweight charges apply.

• Very valuable instruments should be reported to the airline for special handling. Customers should purchase insurance on checked instruments.

Transport of Mobility Aids

• Wheelchairs, walkers, and other assistive devices can be checked for free on Ethiopian Airlines and do not count towards baggage allowance. However, size and weight restrictions may apply for aircraft loading.

• Collapsible/foldable wheelchairs may be carried on board if space permits. Non-collapsible electric wheelchairs usually must be checked due to size.

• Passengers should advise airline in advance for large medical equipment and any special assistance needs in-flight or during connections.

Baggage Rules for Connecting Flights

• For itineraries connecting on Ethiopian Airlines, the baggage allowance applies to the entire journey when booked on a single ticket. You can check luggage through to final destination at your originating airport.

• On inbound flights, the airline will automatically transfer bags to connecting flights. Passengers can claim checked bags at final arrival airport.

Free Baggage Allowance on All Other International Flights and Within Ethiopia

• On Ethiopian Airlines' international flights (excluding flights to/from the US and Canada), as well as domestic flights within Ethiopia, the standard free baggage allowance for checked luggage generally depends on your class of service:

• Economy Class: Passengers in Economy Class typically have a free checked baggage allowance ranging from 20 kg (44 lbs) to 30 kg (66 lbs), depending on the fare class and route.

• Business Class: Business Class passengers often enjoy a more generous free checked baggage allowance, which can range from 30 kg (66 lbs) to 40 kg (88 lbs), depending on the fare class and route.

• It's important to check your specific e-ticket or contact Ethiopian Airlines for the exact baggage allowance applicable to your booking.

Baggage Allowance & Fees for Ethiopian Airlines Flight to/from the US and Canada

• For flights to/from the United States and Canada, Ethiopian Airlines often follows a different baggage policy due to regulations set by the respective countries' authorities. Passengers are generally allowed two pieces of checked luggage in Economy Class, with each piece having a maximum weight limit. The exact allowances and fees for excess baggage can vary, so it's advisable to check the airline's official website or contact their customer service for detailed information specific to your itinerary.

• For Ethiopian Airlines flights to and from the United States and Canada specifically, the standard free checked baggage allowance is:

• Economy Class - 2 checked bags up to 50 lbs (23 kg) each

• Business Class - 3 checked bags up to 70 lbs (32 kg) each

• The same policies and fees for oversized, overweight, and excess baggage apply on routes between Ethiopia and North America.

• When departing the US or Canada, passengers must also comply with any airport baggage limits in the departure country. Always verify local restrictions.

Free Baggage Allowance on Long-Haul Flights

• On long-haul international flights (excluding the US and Canada), Ethiopian Airlines typically offers a free baggage allowance as mentioned in point #1, based on your class of service and fare class. This free baggage allowance is designed to accommodate the needs of travelers on longer journeys.

• On long-haul international flights, Ethiopian Airlines business class passengers enjoy a generous free checked baggage allowance:

• To/from Africa - 2 checked bags up to 70 lbs (32 kg) each

• To/from Europe, Asia, North America - 3 checked bags up to 70 lbs each

• To/from Other Regions - 2 checked bags up to 70 lbs each

• This allowance for business class provides 2-3 free checked bags at up to 70 lbs per bag, depending on the destination region. Carry-on policies are standard.

Additional Baggage Allowance for Sheba Miles and Star Alliance Members

• Ethiopian Airlines offers expanded free checked baggage allowances for members of its ShebaMiles frequent flyer program based on their status tier:

• ShebaMiles Silver Members - Receive 1 extra free checked bag up to 50 lbs in addition to the standard baggage allowance

• ShebaMiles Gold Members - Get 2 extra free checked bags up to 70 lbs each in addition to the normal allowance

• ShebaMiles Platinum Members - Are permitted 3 extra free checked bags up to 70 lbs per bag as an allowance bonus

• Present your ShebaMiles membership card at airport check-in to take advantage of the additional free baggage benefit. Higher status tiers qualify for bigger allowances.

• In addition, as part of the Star Alliance, Ethiopian Airlines provides Star Alliance Gold Members with 1 extra checked bag up to 70 lbs for free.

Delayed, Damaged or Lost Baggage

• For delayed, damaged, or missing bags on Ethiopian Airlines:

• File a report at airport before leaving baggage claim

• Keep baggage tags, tickets, claim checks

• Submit property irregularity report to airline

• Ethiopian Airlines is liable for loss/damage of checked luggage. Compensation is limited under international agreements. Proof of possessions may be required for claims and settlement amounts.

How to Claim for Lost or Damaged Bags

• Follow these steps to claim compensation for lost or damaged checked bags:

• Report problem at baggage claim counter before leaving airport

• Complete property irregularity report with airline

• Provide claim tag, ticket, passport, purchase receipts for possessions

• Wait minimum 21 days after reporting for claim processing

• Submit claim online, email, or in person

• Airline will verify and settle claim based on criteria

• Compensation will be issued according to regulations

• Allow 30 days after submission for claim processing

Baggage Tips to Avoid Fees

• Here are some tips for avoiding checked baggage fees on Ethiopian Airlines:

• Pack light and stick to airline size limits

• Book premium economy or business class for more free checked bags

• Join the ShebaMiles program and qualify for extra baggage allowances

• Pay excess baggage fees online in advance at lower rates

• Carry bulky gear like sports equipment as hand-carry when possible

• Use a checked-bag free credit card for 1-2 free bags

• Careful planning and packing is key to avoiding airline baggage fees.

Frequently Asked Questions on Ethiopian Airlines Baggage

• What is the free carry-on baggage allowance on Ethiopian Airlines?

•     All passengers may carry on 1 bag up to 18 lbs (8 kg) and one personal item that fits under the seat for free. Overweight or oversized carry-ons incur gate check fees.

• How many free checked bags do you get in economy?

•     In economy, the free checked bags allowance is 1 bag up to 33 lbs within Africa, and 1-2 bags up to 50 lbs for other international routes. Excess luggage fees apply after that.

• What is the maximum weight for checked bags on Ethiopian Airlines?

•     100 lbs (45 kg) is the maximum weight per checked bag on Ethiopian Airlines. But fees apply for bags over 50 lbs or 70 lbs depending on your fare class and route.

• Can you pool checked baggage allowance on Ethiopian Airlines?

•     Yes, passengers traveling together on the same reservation can pool their standard free checked baggage allowance. So a family of 4 could check 2 bags each for a total of 8 free bags.

• Does Ethiopian Airlines offer tracking of checked bags?

•     Yes, passengers can track the status of checked bags on Ethiopian Airlines using their baggage tag number on the airline's website or mobile app. This helps locate delayed bags.

• What should I do if my baggage is damaged by Ethiopian Airlines?

•     Report damaged baggage at the airport before leaving and file a property irregularity report. Provide photos and documentation for compensation based on repair costs up to depreciated value.

• What are the baggage dimensions on Ethiopian Airlines?

•     Carry-on bags cannot exceed 17 x 15 x 8 inches (43 x 38 x 20 cm). Checked baggage is limited by a total linear dimension of 158 cm per bag.

• Can I bring a musical instrument on board an Ethiopian Airlines flight?

•     Small instruments may be carried on, while larger instruments can be transported as checked baggage within standard allowances. Notify airline in advance and purchase insurance for valuable instruments.

• Does Ethiopian Airlines offer delivery of delayed bags to hotels or homes?

•     Yes, Ethiopian Airlines can deliver delayed bags to your hotel or residence once received if you are staying in the destination city. This is arranged through the airport baggage assistance office.

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