Hong Kong Airlines: Baggage Fees and Policy

Hong Kong Airlines has a straightforward baggage policy, which varies depending on the class of service, route, and fare type. If you're planning to fly with Hong Kong Airlines, it's essential to understand their baggage allowances to avoid unnecessary fees and ensure a smooth journey. Below is a detailed guide on Hong Kong Airlines baggage fees and policies:

1. Carry-On Baggage (Cabin Baggage)

Hong Kong Airlines allows passengers to bring carry-on luggage onboard, subject to specific weight and size limits. Here’s what you need to know:

Economy Class:

Carry-On Weight Limit: Passengers are allowed 1 piece of carry-on baggage with a weight limit of 7 kg (15 lbs).

Dimensions: The maximum size for the carry-on bag should not exceed 56 x 36 x 23 cm (22 x 14 x 9 inches). This includes handles and wheels.

Additional Personal Items: Passengers can also bring one personal item (e.g., a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack) as long as it fits under the seat in front of you.

Business Class:

Carry-On Weight Limit: Business class passengers are allowed 2 pieces of carry-on baggage with a combined weight limit of 14 kg (31 lbs).

Dimensions: The same carry-on size limitation applies to business class as well — 56 x 36 x 23 cm per item.

Personal Items: In addition to the carry-on bags, business class passengers can carry a personal item like a laptop bag, purse, or camera case.

2. Checked Baggage Allowance

Checked baggage allowances depend on the route, class of service, and fare type. Generally, Hong Kong Airlines provides free checked baggage, but it's important to be aware of the weight limits and potential fees for excess baggage.

Economy Class:

Allowance: The standard checked baggage allowance for economy class passengers is 20 kg (44 lbs).

Additional Baggage: If you need more than the 20 kg allowance, you can purchase extra baggage allowance. The cost for additional baggage depends on the route, so it's best to check with the airline directly or through their website when booking.

Business Class:

Allowance: Business class passengers are entitled to 30 kg (66 lbs) of checked baggage.

Additional Baggage: Extra baggage beyond the 30 kg limit will incur additional fees, which depend on the destination.

Excess Baggage:

If your checked baggage exceeds the allowed weight or size limit, you will be charged excess baggage fees. These fees can be quite expensive, so it’s always better to pre-purchase extra baggage or check your luggage carefully before heading to the airport.

Excess Weight Fee: The excess baggage fee is typically charged by the kilogram, and the rates depend on the route.

Oversized Bags: If your baggage exceeds the size limit, additional fees will also apply, regardless of the weight.

3. Special Baggage (Sports Equipment, Musical Instruments, etc.)

Hong Kong Airlines allows special items such as sports equipment, musical instruments, and baby strollers, but they may require additional fees or specific handling.

Sports Equipment:

Golf Clubs, Ski Equipment, Bicycles, etc.: Sports equipment can be checked in, but passengers must notify the airline in advance, and additional fees may apply.

Fee: Fees vary depending on the equipment and route. For example, for a golf bag, you might have to pay an extra fee on top of your regular baggage allowance.

Musical Instruments:

If you're traveling with a musical instrument (such as a guitar or violin), it can either be carried as part of your cabin baggage (if it fits within the carry-on size limits) or checked in as special baggage. If the instrument exceeds the carry-on size limit, you'll need to purchase an additional seat or use the checked baggage allowance.

Baby Equipment:

Hong Kong Airlines allows one stroller or car seat per child, free of charge. However, the airline may require you to check in these items as special baggage.

4. Baggage Restrictions & Prohibited Items

As with most airlines, Hong Kong Airlines has restrictions on certain items that are not allowed in either carry-on or checked luggage. These include:

Hazardous materials (e.g., flammable liquids, explosives, or chemicals)

Sharp objects (e.g., knives, scissors, or other cutting tools) in carry-on bags

Lithium batteries (check the airline’s policy regarding the transport of devices containing lithium batteries)

For a complete list of restricted or prohibited items, it is advisable to review Hong Kong Airlines' specific baggage restrictions or check with them directly before your flight.

5. Baggage Claims & Damage

If your baggage is delayed, damaged, or lost, Hong Kong Airlines follows standard international procedures for baggage claims.

Damage or Loss: Report any damage or loss of baggage immediately to the airline’s baggage service desk at the airport.

Claim Process: You will need to file a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) and submit the claim with all necessary documentation. The airline will typically investigate the issue and provide compensation based on the circumstances.

Claim Timeframe: Claims for lost baggage generally must be made within 21 days of the arrival of the flight.

6. Baggage Fees for Connecting Flights

If you are on a connecting flight, ensure that the baggage policy applies across all legs of the journey. If you are connecting with another airline, particularly one that operates under a different baggage policy, you may need to collect your baggage and recheck it. In this case, you should be aware of the baggage policies of all carriers involved.

7. Tips to Avoid Baggage Fees

Pre-purchase baggage allowance: It’s cheaper to buy extra baggage online or during booking rather than at the airport.

Check weight limits: Avoid excess baggage fees by packing within the weight limits and using a luggage scale before you leave for the airport.

Pack efficiently: Use space-saving techniques like rolling clothes and packing compactly to avoid bringing excess baggage.

Conclusion

Hong Kong Airlines offers a clear and structured baggage policy, with allowances varying by class of service. While the airline’s economy class provides 20 kg of checked baggage, business class offers 30 kg. Carry-on baggage has a 7 kg limit in economy and 14 kg in business class. For special items like sports equipment or musical instruments, Hong Kong Airlines typically offers reasonable provisions, though extra fees may apply. Always check the airline’s website or contact customer service for the most accurate and up-to-date baggage fees and policies for your specific flight.