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With the growing number of travel conveniences often upstaging simple consideration for fellow passengers, Air New Zealand is seeing a repeated pattern of passengers pushing the boundaries of carry-on baggage allowances.
With the limits being tested of weight, size and number of items for carry on baggage, the airline faces not only logistical challenges but also mounting frustrations from other passengers who do follow the rules.
Air New Zealand Airports general manager Kate Boyers says “The safe and efficient operation of our aircraft is our number one priority. Most of our customers follow the guidelines set out for cabin baggage, however, our airport teams have noticed that some customers’ carry-on baggage has been pushing the upper limits of weight, size, and the number of items allowed.”
She highlighted the consequences of heavy and oversized baggage, which result in “limited space onboard the aircraft, slower boarding and disembarking of the aircraft, and reduced overhead locker capacity for all customers.”
These challenges not only disrupt the travel experience but also pose safety risks in emergency situations where swift evacuation is crucial.
To address this issue, Air New Zealand is implementing stricter enforcement measures. Kate says “For these reasons, we’re taking a closer look at customers’ carry-on baggage at the airport and we will be asking customers whose baggage exceeds limits to check in their bags.”
This move aims to alleviate the strain on overhead compartments and streamline the boarding process for all passengers.
Air New Zealand encourages proactive measures from its travellers and Kate says “If you end up with more weight than expected after packing, we recommend you add a checked bag to your booking before you fly.”
Carry-on Bag Policy
Air New Zealand’s carry-on baggage policy allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag plus one small personal item, with specific weight and size restrictions, as outlined on their website. Additionally, the option to add a checked bag to a domestic fare is available for $30, providing travellers with a convenient solution to avoid overpacking their carry-ons.