Etihad is a popular airline that operates flights worldwide, and its baggage policy varies depending on factors such as class of travel and destination.
But is Etihad really strict with its baggage allowance? And is Etihad strict with carry-on baggage size and weight?
Etihad Airways is slightly strict about baggage size and weight. They may measure and weigh your luggage at check-in or the gate. If your carry-on exceeds the allowed size or weight, they may require you to gate-check it, and excess baggage fees could apply.
In this blog post, we’ll explore just how strict Etihad is with its baggage allowance policy and provide tips to help you avoid potential issues or extra baggage fees.
Without further ado, let’s dive in.

How Strict Is Etihad Airways Cabin Baggage Allowance?
Etihad Airways baggage allowance, fees, weight, and dimensions depend on your destination.
Cabin baggage restrictions also differ significantly depending on your fare class.
Read on to learn how many bags you’re allowed on an Etihad flight, as well as the maximum weight and dimensions for both checked bags and hand luggage.
Etihad Airways Carry-On Baggage Policy
- Economy Class: Passengers are allowed one piece of hand luggage with a maximum weight of 7 kg.
- First Class & Business Class: Passengers are allowed two pieces of hand luggage.
- Infants: Allowed one piece of hand luggage (maximum 5 kg).
Additional Personal Items Allowed Free of Charge
In addition to your carry-on bag, you are also allowed to bring the following items free of charge:
- A handbag, pocketbook, or purse
- A briefcase or portable PC (not used as a container for transporting articles)
- A mobile phone
- A reasonable amount of reading material for the flight
- Infant food for the journey
- An overcoat, wrap, or blanket
- An umbrella or walking stick
- A small camera and/or binoculars
- An infant carry basket or carry cot
- Braces or prosthetic devices, provided the passenger is dependent on them
Due to limited space, Etihad is quite strict about its carry-on baggage size and weight. All carry-on luggage must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
You must be able to lift your carry-on into the overhead storage without assistance. If your carry-on luggage exceeds the permitted allowance, it may need to be checked in.
Assistive devices and outer garments do not count as personal items.
How Strict Is Etihad Airways Checked Baggage Allowance?
When it comes to checked baggage, the maximum weight and dimensions you can bring on an Etihad flight depend on your route and destination.
Etihad Airways provides an online baggage calculator to help you determine your specific checked baggage allowance.
You can check in as many bags as you like, as long as the total weight remains within your allowance.
Checked Baggage Allowance by Class
Class | Number of Pieces | Total Weight Allowance | Maximum Dimensions (per bag) |
---|---|---|---|
Diamond First Class | 2 pieces | 50 kg (110 lb) | 45 cm x 72 cm x 90 cm (17 in x 28 in x 35 in) |
Pearl Business Class | 2 pieces | 40 kg (88 lb) | 45 cm x 72 cm x 90 cm (17 in x 28 in x 35 in) |
Coral Economy Class | 2 pieces | 30 kg (66 lb) | 45 cm x 72 cm x 90 cm (17 in x 28 in x 35 in) |
Infants | 1 piece | 10 kg (22 lb) | 1 additional handbag (max 5 kg) + 1 fully collapsible stroller/carry-cot |
If cabin space is available, collapsible strollers / carry-cots may be carried on board. Otherwise, they will be checked in.
How Strict Is Etihad Airways Excess Baggage Policy?

Weight-Based Excess Baggage Charges
- Unless otherwise specified, the excess baggage fee is 1.5% of the highest normal direct adult one-way IATA Coral Economy fare per excess kilogram.
Piece-Based Excess Baggage Charges
- Flights to Canada: Extra baggage is charged at 500 AED / 137 CAD per piece (up to 32 kg / 70 lb).
- Flights to the USA: Extra baggage beyond two pieces is charged at 500 AED per piece (up to 32 kg / 70 lb).
How Strict Is Etihad Airways Oversized Baggage Policy?
If your baggage exceeds Etihad size restrictions, it will need to be checked in, and oversize baggage fees will apply.
Oversized Baggage Fees
- $40 per way for flights within the Middle East, between the Middle East and the Indian Subcontinent, and between Beijing and Nagoya.
- $60 per way for all other flights.
Exceptions (No Oversized Fees Applied)
- Bikes
- Scuba diving equipment
- Skis, poles, and ski boots
- Surfboards
- Golf bags
However, Etihad Airways does not accept any items weighing more than 32 kg (70 lb) or longer than 300 cm (118 in).
Final Thoughts
Etihad Airways is quite strict with its baggage allowance rules and policies, especially regarding weight restrictions.
If your bag exceeds the weight limit, you may be required to pay an excess baggage fee, which can be expensive.
To avoid last minute surprises at the airport, ensure your baggage stays within the airline’s size and weight limits.
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- How strict is Austrian Airlines with carry on?
Disclosure:
Some information for the post Is Etihad strict with baggage allowance are quoted from the airline website as a resource, please visit the airline website for more information.
