Austrian Airlines’ baggage policy varies by fare class, route, and frequent flyer status, with specific rules for carry-on and checked baggage. Below is a concise summary based on the latest information from their official website and other reliable sources.
Carry-On Baggage (Free):
- Personal Item: One personal item (e.g., purse, laptop bag, small backpack) is allowed free, with maximum dimensions of 40 x 30 x 10 cm (16 x 12 x 4 inches). It must fit under the seat.
- Standard Carry-On:
- Economy/Premium Economy: One carry-on bag, maximum dimensions 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.7 x 15.7 x 9 inches), including handles and wheels, and maximum weight of 8 kg (17.6 lbs).
- Business Class: Two carry-on bags, each within the same size and weight limits (8 kg each).
- Alternatively, a foldable garment bag (max 57 x 54 x 15 cm) can replace a carry-on bag.
- Carry-ons are checked at the airport for size and weight. If they exceed limits or cabin space is limited, they may be checked into the hold, potentially incurring fees (e.g., €75 for oversized carry-ons).
- Liquids: Follows the 3-1-1 rule (100 ml/3.4 oz containers in a single, transparent, 1-liter plastic bag, one per passenger). For U.S. flights, only transparent or translucent containers are allowed in security bags.
- Notes: Passengers must stow carry-ons themselves (overhead bin or under seat), except for those with reduced mobility. Emergency exit row passengers cannot store bags under seats for safety reasons.
Checked Baggage (Free Allowance):
- Size and Weight Limits: Maximum size per bag is 158 cm (62 inches, length + width + height). Maximum weight is 23 kg (50 lbs) for Economy/Premium Economy, 32 kg (70 lbs) for Business Class. Bags over 32 kg are not accepted; oversized bags (159–292 cm) may be shipped as cargo with advance notice.
- Allowance by Fare Class (scheduled flights, e.g., OS561):
- Economy Light: No free checked baggage; first bag costs €30 (Europe) or €60+ (long-haul) if prepaid online, higher at the airport (e.g., €80 Europe, €300 Asia/U.S.).
- Economy Classic/Flex: 1 bag up to 23 kg.
- Premium Economy: 2 bags, each up to 23 kg.
- Business Class: 2 bags, each up to 32 kg.
- First Class (select long-haul routes): 3 bags, each up to 32 kg.
- Frequent Flyer Benefits:
- HON Circle/Senators: +1 small sports item (≤15 kg, ≤1.4 m) or 1 golf bag (≤15 kg) free, except Economy Light or U.S./Canada routes.
- Star Alliance Gold: 1 golf bag (≤15 kg) free, subject to same restrictions.
- Infants/Children: 1 bag up to 23 kg (50 lbs) plus one collapsible stroller (≤10 kg), car seat, or baby carrier per child, free.
- Multi-Airline Trips: For itineraries with multiple airlines, the baggage rules of the airline operating the longest leg apply, or the first airline for U.S./Canada trips per CTA/US DOT rules. Check your ticket for details.
Excess Baggage Fees:
- Fees vary by route and are charged per piece, weight, or size exceedance:
- Europe: €80 per extra bag (airport), €15–€50 less if prepaid online. Overweight (24–32 kg) or oversized (159–292 cm): €80–€150.
- Intercontinental (e.g., U.S., Asia): €300 per extra bag (airport), €100–€200 for overweight/oversized.
- A €10–€20 service fee applies per excess baggage ticket at the airport.
- Prepay online, via the app, or call center for savings. Over 5 extra bags or bags >292 cm/32 kg require cargo booking.
Special Items:
- Musical Instruments: Small instruments (≤55 x 40 x 23 cm) count as carry-on. Larger ones (≤155 x 42 x 25 cm or 110 x 42 x 50 cm, <75 kg) can be carried with an extra seat purchase or checked with excess fees (€80–€300). Over 32 kg/292 cm requires cargo.
- Pets: Small cats/dogs (≤8 kg including carrier) allowed in cabin for €50 (domestic), €60 (Europe), €80–€110 (intercontinental). Larger pets in hold cost more; advance booking required.
- Prohibited Items: Liquids over 100 ml, explosives, flammable substances, and certain batteries are banned. Lithium batteries (e.g., in power banks) must be in carry-ons. Check Austrian’s dangerous goods list.
Lost or Damaged Baggage:
Report delays, damage, or loss within 7 days (damage) or 21 days (delay/loss) via Austrian’s service page. Liability is limited per the Montreal Convention (~$1,800 USD for international flights). Valuables (e.g., jewelry, electronics) should be in carry-ons, as Austrian isn’t liable for these in checked bags.
Tips:
- For Economy Light, book Classic/Flex fares for included checked baggage to save costs.
- Social media feedback (e.g., Reddit) suggests occasional strict checks on carry-on weight, so weigh bags beforehand. Enforcement varies by airport/staff.
- Use Airportr (from €22 or 7,260 miles) for home luggage pickup in select cities like Vienna.
- Label all bags with your name and address; avoid packing valuables in checked luggage.
