How Strict is Japan Airlines with Carry On Weight?

Japan Airlines (JAL) is known for its rigidity regarding carry-on baggage weight on its flights. The airline ensures the safety and comfort of all passengers on board by providing certain limitations.

If you are planning to fly Japan Airlines, it is essential to understand their carry-on baggage allowance to avoid any last-minute hassle at the airport. The airline maintains a strict policy regarding the weight and size of carry-on luggage, especially for passengers in economy class.

Is JAL strict on carry-on weight?

Yes, Japan Airlines is strict on its carry-on weight due to the safety of its travelers and to maintain balance within the cabin while flying. The limited capacity of overhead bins and overcrowding are also significant factors of the airline’s strict carry-on baggage policy.

Travelers can carry 1 bag onboard containing personal items, be it a shopping bag or a handbag. In addition, one more bag with the total weight of both bags not to exceed 10kg (22 lbs) is allowed on Japan Airlines flights.

The total dimensions of the carry-on bag, including length, width, and height, should not exceed 45 inches (115 cm). It is to ensure that the bag must be safely fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

Japan Airlines Carry-On Weight & Allowance

According to Japan Airlines’ carry-on baggage policy, the weight limits vary based on your travel class.

A bag weighing up to 100 lbs (45kg) is not accepted as checked baggage. If the piece (allowed under the free baggage allowance) exceeds 50 lbs (23kg) and is less than 70 lbs (32kg), an extra baggage fee of USD 100.00 will apply.

Here is a table comprising Japan Airlines’ carry-on baggage allowance to assist passengers of respective class on board:

NOTE: An excess baggage fee will apply to each piece of checked baggage that exceeds the free baggage allowance.

Important Guidelines for Japan Airlines Carry-On Baggage

If you are traveling with Japan Airlines, you must follow specific guidelines for carry-on baggage to ensure safety and compliance. Below are key points to keep in mind:

• Exceeding Size/Weight Limits: If your baggage exceeds the allowed size or weight, or cannot be stowed properly in the cabin, it may need to be checked at the boarding gate or cabin.

• Valuables and Hazardous Items: Avoid packing valuables in checked baggage and ensure you follow legal restrictions on hazardous items.

• Stowing Baggage: Passengers are responsible for their carry-on baggage being under the seat in front of them or the overhead compartment & ensuring it doesn’t obstruct aisles or emergency exits.

• Special Seating Considerations: If you are seated directly behind a screen or cabin wall, your baggage will not be placed at your feet. Passengers seated in these rows cannot place baggage at their feet or on their lap.

• Safety Concerns: Proper stowage is crucial to prevent injuries, avoid obstructing emergency escapes, and ensure passengers can assume the correct brace position during emergencies.

Final Thoughts

JAL is known for its high standards of service. By strictly enforcing baggage rules, the airline maintains these standards. Travelers should know these baggage guidelines (particularly, the carry-on weight restrictions) before flying.

Japan Airlines’ strict baggage policy complies to ensure passenger safety & to maintain the balance of aircraft, like many other airlines. So, plan and pack accordingly to avoid any inconvenience at the time of check-in.

Frequently Asked Questions