Airlines around the world are implementing increasingly strict baggage regulations. This has left many passengers dissatisfied, feeling as if they are being "disregarded."
Recently, Virgin Australia, Australia's leading airline, announced that from February 2nd, 2026, passengers will only be allowed to carry one standard-sized piece of carry-on baggage (56x36x23cm), weighing a maximum of 8kg. In addition, passengers may carry one small personal bag to place under their seat.
Globally, many airlines are continuing to adjust their carry-on baggage regulations, according to the Daily Mail.
In January 2025, Air Canada limited basic economy class passengers to only one personal item to be placed under their seat on domestic flights within Canada, the US, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, while also eliminating the standard carry-on baggage allowance.
Meanwhile, budget airline Jetstar allows passengers in basic class to carry 7kg of hand luggage, consisting of one large piece placed in the overhead compartment and a smaller piece placed under the seat in front.
So what causes each airline to apply different baggage and weight limits?
Natasha Heap, a former pilot with 25 years of experience, said that airlines apply different baggage regulations due to their direct connection to aircraft takeoff weight limits. Therefore, carrying too much carry-on baggage also becomes a safety concern.
According to Ms. Heap, each aircraft has strict maximum takeoff weight limits, including the weight of the aircraft itself, fuel, food, beverages, cargo, pilot, crew, as well as passengers and baggage.
However, the average weight of passengers has increased over the years. This means that airlines have had to adjust the weight limits for carry-on baggage.
The former pilot stated that in 1998, when she began her career, the standard weight limit for airline passengers in Australia was 77 kg per person.
"For aircraft with a maximum capacity of 150 to 299 seats, such as the Boeing 737, the current standard weight for an adult male passenger is assumed to be 81.8 kg, and for a female passenger 66.7 kg."
"So the standard weight for carry-on baggage is an average of 7kg per passenger," she said.
However, each airline can still apply for approval to apply its own weight limits for passengers and carry-on baggage, after approval by the Civil Aviation Authority. This explains why carry-on baggage regulations vary between airlines.
Furthermore, the rise of low-cost airlines has led to inconsistent and stricter regulations regarding carry-on baggage.
Low-cost airlines like Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air may offer affordable fares, but passengers often have to pay extra for carry-on baggage, in-flight Wi-Fi, and meals.
According to former pilot Natasha Heap, heavy or oversized carry-on baggage often causes delays during boarding due to insufficient space in the overhead compartments. In many cases, the baggage has to be moved to the cargo hold, causing flight delays.
In addition, Ms. Heap warned of safety risks for flight attendants, who could be injured when lifting heavy luggage. Overcrowded overhead compartments also pose a potential danger in the event of an accident.
Amidst continuing air travel demand, airlines are tightening baggage limits to reduce delays, protect staff, and ensure aircraft are loaded according to regulations.
Although these regulations may cause some inconvenience for passengers, Ms. Heap asserted that they are necessary to ensure safety and help flights operate on time.
