New cabin bag size guidelines aim to make life easier for travellers

Several international airlines have agreed on an optimum size for cabin bags which claims to make the best use of the storage space on an aeroplane.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) guidelines state that a carry-on bag of 55 x 35 x 20cm means that all passengers on board an aircraft with 120 seats or more should be able to store their hand luggage in the cabin

A number of airlines will be introducing the guidelines into their operations and an ‘IATA Cabin OK’ logo has been developed to make it easy for airline staff to see that a bag meets the agreed size rules.

Several manufacturers are developing bags which fit within the guidelines and luggage carrying the IATA Cabin OK logo is due to become available for travellers to purchase later this year.

IATA senior vice president for airport, passenger, cargo and security, Tom Windmuller, said: “The development of an agreed optimal cabin bag size will bring common sense and order to the problem of differing sizes for carry-on bags.

“We know the current situation can be frustrating for passengers. This work will help to iron out inconsistencies and lead to an improved passenger experience.”

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Travel insurance from insurewithease.com includes cover for your personal possessions whilst you are away. 

Top tip:  Always carry valuable items such as cameras or jewellery in your cabin baggage; they will not be covered if they are put in the aircraft hold.

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