Dubai: The days of free checked baggage might be numbered as airlines worldwide continue tightening their baggage policies to “boost revenue”. US carrier Southwest Airlines, known for its “Bags Fly Free” policy, recently announced it would start charging most passengers for checked luggage starting May this year.
This move is part of a broader trend where airlines monetise baggage allowances to offset rising operational costs. Southwest Airlines CEO Bob Jordan justified the move by stating that the company needs to “return to the levels of profitability that both we and our shareholders expect.” Southwest’s move is in line with industry trends. Most US carriers, including American Airlines, Delta, and United, already charge for checked luggage, particularly on domestic and economy fares.
However, Southwest’s move drew some criticism from industry experts. Henry Harteveldt, an airline industry analyst, told CBS News that moves like these erode customer loyalty. He said, “This is how you destroy a brand. This is how you destroy customer preference. This is how you destroy loyalty.”
UAE carriers’ baggage allowance
In contrast, UAE carriers offer some of the most generous and traveller-friendly checked baggage allowances compared to their US and European counterparts.
Full-service airlines like Emirates and Etihad provide substantial baggage allowances, with Economy Class passengers typically allowed between 20 kg to 35 kg, while Business and First-Class travellers enjoy even higher limits of 40 kg to 50 kg. These policies make UAE airlines attractive for long-haul travellers, families, and those carrying extra luggage.
Dubai’s flag carrier, Emirates’ allowances depend on the fare type. Economy Class passengers are usually allotted 20 kg to 35 kg, depending on the ticket tier. Business class passengers can travel at the 40 kg standard, and first-class travellers can carry the 50 kg standard. Passengers flying to certain destinations, such as the U.S., Canada, and South America, are allowed two pieces of luggage, with weight limits varying based on class and ticket type.
UAE’s flag carrier, Etihad, follows a similar structure, with allowances based on fare class. Economy Class travellers have a 23 kg to 35 kg allowance, while Business Class and First-Class passengers have a 40 kg to 50kg allowance. Sometimes, Etihad passengers are offered a much cheaper fare option without free checked baggage.
flydubai also offers generous checked baggage options. Economy passengers can travel with up to three pieces of checked baggage weighing 20 kg, 30 kg, or 40 kg, depending on the fare type. Business Class have an allowance of up to three pieces, with a total weight of 40 kg. The flexibility of weight options makes flydubai a strong alternative for budget-conscious travellers.
As a budget carrier, Air Arabia does not include free checked baggage in its base fares. However, passengers can purchase checked baggage allowances at competitive rates. Options range from 20 kg, 30 kg, or 40 kg per passenger.
The advantage here is that travellers can pre-book baggage at lower rates rather than paying high last-minute fees at the airport.
Some budget carriers, such as Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, follow a pay-for-what-you-use model, where passengers are charged separately for checked baggage. Unlike traditional full-service airlines, these low-cost carriers keep ticket prices low by unbundling services and allowing passengers to pay only for the needed baggage. This model appeals to budget-conscious travellers who prefer to travel light while offering flexible baggage options for those willing to pay extra.
What this means for travellers
With airlines worldwide moving toward paid baggage models, travellers must plan their flights carefully to avoid unexpected fees. Here’s what this means for different types of passengers:
Expect higher baggage fees on low-cost airlines.
Look for options like flydubai and Air Arabia, which offer pre-paid baggage choices at lower rates.
Business and frequent flyers:
If you frequently check bags, choosing airlines with higher allowances (such as Emirates and Etihad) can save money in the long run.
Airlines like Air India and Emirates still offer two free checked bags on flights to North America, making them preferable for long-haul journeys.
Passengers with heavy luggage needs
Middle Eastern airlines remain the most generous with baggage policies.
Southwest’s decision may push more travellers toward international carriers with free baggage options.
While many global airlines now charge for checked baggage, UAE carriers have resisted this trend. Given their focus on premium service and customer satisfaction, it is unlikely that airlines like Emirates, Etihad, and flydubai will fully eliminate free checked baggage anytime soon.
