Why Airlines Are Limiting Passengers to 1 Bag on International Flights from the USA
Navigating airline baggage policies can be a hassle, especially for long-haul US-India flights. On my last trip from New York to Delhi with Air India, I was relieved to check two 23kg bags without extra fees, but I noticed other passengers struggling with unexpected charges due to policy changes. The airline industry has shifted from allowing two checked bags to just one on many international routes, driven by post-COVID financial recovery strategies. This article explores which airlines still offer two checked bags, Air India’s policies, and the reasons behind this shift, helping you plan your trip effectively. Airlines like Etihad, Air India, Emirates, and Qatar Airways often allow two 23kg checked bags, making them popular choices for US-India travelers.
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Why Airlines Are Limiting Passengers to 1 Bag
The airline industry faced massive losses during the COVID-19 pandemic, with grounded fleets and reduced travel demand. To recover, many airlines, particularly US and European carriers, have reduced free checked baggage allowances from two bags to one on international flights, including US-India routes. This shift boosts revenue through excess baggage fees and reduces handling costs. For example, airlines like American Airlines and United Airlines now charge for a second checked bag on many routes, capitalizing on travelers’ need to carry more. This focus on profits often frustrates passengers accustomed to more generous policies.
Airlines That Allow Two Checked Bags
Several airlines continue to offer two free checked bags (up to 23kg each) on US-India international flights, particularly for economy class. These include:
- Air India: Allows two 23kg bags for economy class on most US-India routes.
- Emirates: Permits two 23kg bags in economy, with priority handling for business and first class.
- Qatar Airways: Offers two 23kg bags for economy class on US-India flights.
- Etihad Airways: Allows two 23kg bags for economy passengers on select routes.
- Singapore Airlines: Provides two bags up to 30–35kg total in economy class.
- British Airways: Typically allows two 23kg bags, depending on fare type.
- KLM: Offers two 23kg bags on certain US-India routes.
Always verify with the airline, as policies vary by route, fare type, and ticket date. For example, Air India’s policy for tickets issued before April 2019 allowed one 23kg bag for economy to Newark, but newer tickets follow the two-bag rule.
Air India Baggage Allowance
Air India’s “2pc baggage allowance” for international flights typically means two checked bags, each up to 23kg, for economy class on US-India routes. Business and first-class passengers can check two bags, each up to 32kg. Infants are allowed one 10kg checked bag. Excess baggage fees range from INR 400–750 per kg for domestic routes and approximately $100–200 per additional bag for international flights, depending on the route. For precise fees, check Air India’s baggage policy. Passengers can pre-book extra baggage online to save on airport fees.
Airlines Charging for a Second Checked Bag
Many airlines now charge for a second checked bag on US-India flights, reflecting the industry’s revenue-focused approach. Examples include:
- American Airlines: $45–100 for the second bag, depending on the route.
- United Airlines: Charges for the second bag, often $100–150.
- Delta Air Lines: Fees for the second bag vary by destination, typically $100.
- Aer Lingus: Charges for the second bag on transatlantic flights.
Budget carriers like Spirit, Frontier, Norwegian Air, Ryanair, and WOW Air charge for all checked bags. Southwest Airlines is an exception among US carriers, offering two free checked bags on domestic routes, but international policies may differ.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which airlines allow two checked bags to India?
Airlines like Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad, Singapore Airlines, British Airways, and KLM typically allow two 23kg checked bags in economy class on US-India flights, depending on fare type and route.
Which airlines offer two checked bags?
Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad, Singapore Airlines, British Airways, and KLM offer two free checked bags (up to 23kg each) for economy passengers on select US-India routes.
Can I carry two luggage bags in Air India?
Yes, Air India allows two checked bags, each up to 23kg, for economy class on most US-India international flights. Business and first-class passengers can check two 32kg bags.
How many bags can I take to India from the USA?
Most full-service airlines like Air India, Emirates, and Qatar Airways allow two checked bags (23kg each) in economy. Budget carriers or certain fares may limit you to one bag or charge for additional bags.
What is 2pc baggage allowance in Air India international?
Air India’s 2pc baggage allowance means two checked bags, each up to 23kg, for economy class on US-India flights. Business and first-class allow two 32kg bags.
How much does Air India charge for extra baggage from the USA to India?
Air India charges approximately $100–200 for extra bags on US-India flights, depending on the route and weight. Pre-booking online can reduce costs.
What does 2 bags at 23kg mean internationally?
A 2-bag allowance at 23kg means passengers can check two pieces of luggage, each weighing up to 23kg, without extra fees, subject to airline and route-specific rules.
Can we take two bags in an international flight?
Yes, airlines like Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways, and others allow two checked bags (up to 23kg each) on US-India flights, but some carriers charge for the second bag.
