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Air China Baggage Policy (2026)

Last updated: May 2026 · Source: Air China official website

Quick Answer

Air China allows 1 carry-on (5 kg) and 1 personal item in Economy. Economy tickets generally include at least 1 free checked bag up to 23 kg.

Carry-On Baggage

Carry-On SizeEconomy/Premium Economy: 1 bag, 55x40x20 cm, 5 kg max. Business/First: 2 bags, 55x40x20 cm, 8 kg max each.
Personal Item1 personal item allowed (e.g., handbag, laptop bag) that fits under the seat.

Checked Baggage Fees

ItemFee / Details
Included BagsEconomy/Premium Economy: 1 bag (23 kg) or 2 bags (23 kg each) depending on fare type. Business/First: 2 bags (32 kg each).
1st Checked BagFree for standard economy fares. Excess first bag fee is $120-$220 USD depending on route.
2nd Checked BagFree if included in fare. Excess second bag fee is $160-$310 USD depending on route.
Overweight Fee$30-$150 USD depending on route and weight tier (23-28 kg or 28-32 kg).
Oversized Fee$75-$150 USD depending on route for bags 158-203 cm.
Max Weight32 kg per bag
Max Dimensions158 cm linear (L+W+H)

Free checked bag included in economy class

International Baggage Rules

Most international routes use the piece concept (e.g., 1-2 bags up to 23 kg for Economy). Some routes use the weight concept (e.g., 20 kg total for Economy).

Special Items

Sports Equipment

Golf bags, skis, and bicycles are accepted and count towards standard baggage allowance; no extra charge for oversize. Surfboards and canoes are charged by weight (e.g., $400 for 2-23 kg).

Musical Instruments

Small instruments can be carried on if within size limits. Large instruments can be checked as special baggage; excess fees apply based on weight (e.g., $75 for 2-23 kg, $600 for 23-32 kg).

Tips to Avoid Baggage Fees

  1. 1Join PhoenixMiles for extra baggage allowance.
  2. 2Book a higher Economy fare tier (Selected/Latitude) for a second free bag.
  3. 3Ensure carry-on is strictly under 5 kg as Air China often weighs them.

Did You Know?

Air China has an unusually strict 5 kg (11 lbs) weight limit for Economy carry-on bags. PhoenixMiles elite members get an extra free checked bag (up to 23 kg in Economy, 32 kg in premium cabins).

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Air China charge for checked bags?
Air China charges Free for standard economy fares. Excess first bag fee is $120-$220 USD depending on route. for the first checked bag and Free if included in fare. Excess second bag fee is $160-$310 USD depending on route. for the second bag.
What is Air China's carry-on bag size limit?
Air China carry-on allowance: Economy/Premium Economy: 1 bag, 55x40x20 cm, 5 kg max. Business/First: 2 bags, 55x40x20 cm, 8 kg max each.. 1 personal item allowed (e.g., handbag, laptop bag) that fits under the seat.
Does Air China include free checked bags in economy?
Yes, Air China includes at least one free checked bag in economy class. Economy/Premium Economy: 1 bag (23 kg) or 2 bags (23 kg each) depending on fare type. Business/First: 2 bags (32 kg each).
What is Air China's overweight baggage fee?
$30-$150 USD depending on route and weight tier (23-28 kg or 28-32 kg).
Can I bring sports equipment on Air China?
Golf bags, skis, and bicycles are accepted and count towards standard baggage allowance; no extra charge for oversize. Surfboards and canoes are charged by weight (e.g., $400 for 2-23 kg).

More Air China Information

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