Air Choice One ceased operations on July 2, 2022, after being acquired by Southern Airways Corporation, and its services were merged into Southern Airways Express. Therefore, the baggage policy below reflects the last known policy for Air Choice One before its closure, based on available information.
Cabin Baggage:
- Allowance: Passengers were allowed 1 carry-on bag, max 22 kg (48 lbs), with dimensions not exceeding 55 x 35 x 22 cm (22 x 14 x 9 in, including handles/wheels). Additionally, 1 personal item (e.g., handbag, laptop bag) was permitted, max 9 kg (20 lbs), with dimensions not exceeding 45 x 45 x 20 cm (18 x 18 x 8 in).
- Enforcement: Due to the small size of Air Choice One’s aircraft (primarily Cessna 208B and Beechcraft 1900C), strict compliance with size and weight limits was enforced to ensure cabin safety and space availability. Non-compliant bags could be checked into the hold, potentially incurring fees.
Checked Baggage:
- Allowance: 1 checked bag was included free, max 22 kg (48 lbs), with dimensions not exceeding 68 x 35 x 96 cm (27 x 14 x 38 in). Additional bags could be purchased, with each extra bag also limited to 22 kg.
- Excess Fees: Fees for additional, overweight, or oversized baggage were not explicitly detailed in available sources but were noted to vary. Passengers were advised to check Air Choice One’s website or contact the airline for specific rates, as fees could be higher at the airport compared to prepayment.
- Check-In: Online check-in was available, closing 1 hour before departure. Airport check-in required passengers to present bags at the counter, where size and weight were verified.
Special Items:
- Sports Equipment/Musical Instruments: Specific policies for sports equipment or musical instruments were not detailed in available sources. Given the small aircraft, such items likely needed to meet standard size/weight limits or be checked, potentially with fees.
- Pets: No specific pet policy was provided in the sources, but small aircraft typically restricted in-cabin pets due to space constraints. Pets may have been transported as cargo, subject to approval and fees.
- Infants: No explicit mention of infant baggage allowances, but standard industry practice suggests a foldable stroller or car seat could be checked free, subject to space availability.
Additional Notes:
- Operational Context: Air Choice One operated as a commuter airline under the Essential Air Service (EAS) program, serving regional routes from St. Louis to destinations like Jonesboro, AR, and Burlington, IA. Its small fleet and lack of codeshare/interline agreements meant baggage was not through-checked to connecting flights with major carriers, requiring passengers to re-check bags at hubs.
- Lost/Damaged Baggage: Claims for lost or damaged baggage needed to be filed per U.S. Department of Transportation regulations, typically within 7 days for damage and 21 days for loss. Refunds for baggage fees were possible if bags were lost.
- Public Sentiment: The lack of interline agreements was a noted drawback, as passengers had to manage their own baggage transfers during connections, potentially increasing hassle and costs.
