Air China Baggage Policy

Cabin Baggage:

Economy Class: 1 carry-on bag, max 5 kg (11 lbs), dimensions not exceeding 55 x 40 x 20 cm (22 x 16 x 8 in, including handles/wheels). One personal item (e.g., handbag, laptop bag) that fits under the seat is also allowed.
First/Business Class: 2 carry-on bags, each max 8 kg (17 lbs), dimensions not exceeding 55 x 40 x 20 cm. One personal item is also permitted.
Domestic Flights in China: No liquids allowed in carry-on due to Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) rules, except for personal cosmetics (1 item per type, max 100 ml each, in a transparent bag for inspection). Duty-free liquids from international flights transferring to domestic must be sealed and have proof of purchase.
Enforcement: Bags exceeding size/weight limits or not fitting in overhead bins/under seats will be checked into the hold, potentially with fees. Baggage measurers are available at check-in counters and boarding gates.
Additional Items: Passengers with infants can bring infant food, diapers, and a foldable stroller (max 55 x 40 x 20 cm when folded) into the cabin. Mobility aids (e.g., crutches, folding manual wheelchairs) for passengers with disabilities are allowed free, provided they meet safety requirements.

Checked Baggage:

Weight Concept Routes (e.g., most domestic China flights):

Economy: 20 kg (44 lbs) free.
Business: 30 kg (66 lbs) free.
First: 40 kg (88 lbs) free.
Infants: 10 kg (22 lbs) free + 1 foldable stroller, cradle, or car seat.
Each bag must not exceed 100 x 60 x 40 cm (39 x 24 x 16 in).

Piece Concept Routes (e.g., to/from Americas, Europe, Africa, Middle East, Australia, New Zealand, Asia except Japan, Hong Kong/Macau/Taiwan):

Economy: 1 bag, max 23 kg (50 lbs), 158 cm (62 in) total dimensions.
Premium Economy: 2 bags, each max 23 kg, 158 cm.
First/Business: 2 bags, each max 32 kg (70 lbs), 158 cm.
Infants: 1 bag, max 23 kg, + 1 foldable stroller/cradle/car seat.

Routes to/from Japan or Transiting to Americas (except Hawaii) via Mainland China:

Economy: 2 bags, each max 23 kg, 158 cm.
First/Business: 2 bags, each max 32 kg, 158 cm.
Infants: 1 extra bag, max 23 kg, + 1 stroller/cradle.

General Limits: Checked bags must be 60–203 cm (24–80 in) in total dimensions and 2–45 kg (4.4–99 lbs). Bags exceeding 32 kg must be repacked; those over 45 kg or 203 cm must be shipped via cargo.

PhoenixMiles/Star Alliance Benefits: PhoenixMiles Platinum/Gold/Silver and Star Alliance Gold members get 1 extra bag (23 kg for Economy, 32 kg for Business/First).

Special Needs: Electric wheelchairs, scooters, and other mobility aids are checked free and do not count toward allowance.

Excess Baggage Fees:

Domestic Routes: Charged per kg at 1.5% of the one-way Economy adult fare for the route.
International Routes: Fees vary by zone:
- Zone 1 (e.g., Japan, Korea, Hong Kong): $30–$130 USD per extra bag.
- Zone 2 (e.g., Australia, India): $50–$200 USD per extra bag.
- Zone 3 (e.g., U.S., Europe): $100–$220 USD per extra bag.
- Overweight (23–32 kg) or oversized (158–203 cm): Additional fees apply.
- Example: One extra 23 kg bag to South Africa costs ~RMB 1100 (~$150 USD).
Prepayment: Can be purchased online or at check-in. Fees are lower when prepaid.

Special Items:

Sports Equipment: Golf, skiing, fishing, or bicycling gear is allowed if within 158 cm and weight limits (23 kg Economy, 32 kg First/Business). Counts as checked baggage; excess fees apply if no free allowance.
Musical Instruments: Can be carry-on if within size/weight limits or checked as baggage. For cabin transport on an extra seat, instruments must not exceed 140 x 50 x 40 cm, 75 kg, and require a separate ticket. Must be placed by a window seat.
Pets: Small pets (max 32 kg including carrier) can be checked in the hold for a fee (3x standard excess baggage rate outside Americas, $6–$220 USD). One pet per container; two puppies/kittens allowed if under 6 months. Advance booking required.
Service/Guide Dogs: Checked free, not counted toward allowance, with prior approval.

Additional Notes:

Codeshare/Interline Flights: The Most Significant Carrier (MSC) rule applies per IATA Resolution 302. For U.S./Canada routes (except Hawaii), the first marketing carrier’s policy applies. If Air Canada is the first carrier, their rules (e.g., 2 bags for Business, 1 for Economy) may apply for the entire journey.
Lost/Damaged Baggage: Report damage within 7 days, lost baggage within 21 days at the airport or via Air China’s website. Compensation follows international regulations.
Restricted Items: Lithium batteries (e.g., in laptops, phones) are prohibited in checked baggage but allowed in carry-on (max 2 spare batteries, protected against short-circuit). Sharp items (knives, scissors) must be in checked baggage.
Public Sentiment: Some travelers note inconsistent information on Air China’s website, recommending checking tickets or contacting the airline directly. Luggage shipping services are suggested to avoid high excess fees.