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Japan Airlines Baggage Policy

Japan Airlines (JAL) Baggage Policy Overview
Carry-On Baggage:
  • All Classes (Domestic and International Flights): One carry-on bag, max dimensions 55 x 40 x 25 cm (22 x 16 x 10 in, 115 cm total, including handles and wheels), plus one personal item (e.g., handbag, laptop bag, duty-free bag). Combined weight must not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs).
  • Personal Item: No specific size limit but must fit under the seat. Bulkhead seat passengers must stow all items in overhead bins during takeoff and landing.
  • Infants (under 2 years, lap): No separate carry-on allowance; items count toward accompanying adult’s allowance.
  • Liquids: Containers up to 100 ml in a 1-liter transparent, resealable plastic bag (total volume not exceeding 1 liter). Lighters (one per person, non-absorbent type) and matches permitted; e-cigarettes must be in carry-on with batteries removed.
  • Notes: Oversized/overweight carry-on may be gate-checked (fee ~$60–$105 USD). Strict enforcement at busy airports like Tokyo-Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND), with weight checks common. Stowage in overhead bins or under seats is mandatory; items blocking aisles or emergency exits are prohibited.
Checked Baggage (International Flights, Piece Concept):
  • Max Limits: Each bag up to 32 kg (70 lbs), max 203 cm (80 in, length + width + height). Bags over 45 kg (100 lbs) or 292 cm (115 in) not accepted; must be shipped via cargo.
  • Economy/Premium Economy: 2 pieces, up to 23 kg (50 lbs) each, max 203 cm.
  • Business/First Class: 3 pieces, up to 32 kg (70 lbs) each, max 203 cm.
  • Children (2 years and above): Same allowance as adults.
  • Infants (under 2 years, lap): 1 piece, same weight/dimensions as accompanying adult (23 kg Economy/Premium Economy, 32 kg Business/First), plus one stroller or car seat free.
Special Baggage:
  • Sports Equipment (e.g., surfboards, bicycles, golf clubs): Counts toward free allowance if within size/weight limits; otherwise, standard excess fees apply. Surfboards (max 2 per bag) incur a handling fee (e.g., 20,000 JPY for Japan ↔ North America). Bicycles require advance registration, tires deflated, pedals removed, packed in a case.
  • Musical Instruments: Small instruments (e.g., violins) within carry-on limits replace carry-on. Larger instruments checked (standard fees) or require an extra seat (max 75 kg, 110 x 42 x 50 cm). Hard cases recommended; JAL not liable for damage to fragile items.
  • Pets: Dogs/cats allowed in cargo hold (max 32 kg including crate, fees 5,000–40,000 JPY/~$50–$400 USD, depending on route). Assistance dogs free in cabin. Requires 7-day advance booking, pet passport, health certificate, and permits. Combined pet and checked baggage weight must not exceed 100 kg.
  • Strollers/Car Seats: Free for infants/children, checked at gate or counter.
  • CPAP Machines: Allowed in cabin with advance notice (provide model, manufacturer, battery type). No medical certificate required.
Prohibited Items:
  • Checked Baggage: Explosives, flammable liquids/gases, corrosives, loose lithium batteries (>160 Wh), hoverboards. Electronics must be powered off.
  • Carry-On Baggage: Sharp objects (e.g., knives, scissors), blunt objects (e.g., bats, golf clubs), liquids over 100 ml, stun guns.
  • Note: New rules (July 2025) require mobile batteries (e.g., power banks) in carry-on only, with lithium content <2g and capacity <160 Wh.
Lost, Damaged, or Delayed Baggage:
  • Reporting: File a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport within 7 days (damage/loss) or 21 days (delay).
  • Liability: Max 1,288 Special Drawing Rights unless higher value declared. JAL not liable for fragile items (e.g., ceramics, electronics) or minor wear.
  • Note: For valuables, carry them in carry-on; JAL advises against checking high-value items.
Additional Notes:
  • Codeshare Flights: The operating airline’s baggage rules apply for the first segment. For U.S./Canada routes, the Most Significant Carrier (MSC) rules (per U.S. DOT/CTA) apply to the entire itinerary. Check with partners (e.g., American Airlines, British Airways).
  • Strictness: JAL enforces carry-on weight limits (10 kg total) at busy airports like NRT/HND, with occasional dimension checks. Domestic flights may be stricter due to smaller aircraft. Anecdotal reports suggest leniency for slightly oversized bags (e.g., 1–2 cm over) if under weight, but compliance is advised.