Cathay Pacific is a premium airline based in Hong Kong. In this article, we will explore its luggage policy, how strictly it is enforced, and what you need to know to comply with the airline’s guidelines.
Understanding Cathay Pacific hand luggage policy is essential, as it can help you avoid unexpected fees, delays, or even denied boarding.
By the end of this article, you will clearly understand how strict Cathay Pacific is with hand luggage and what you need to do to comply with its baggage regulations.
Let’s dive right in.
what is Cathay Pacific Airways carry on baggage allowance?
Economy class
Economy class passengers are allowed:
- 1 carry-on bag with a maximum weight of 7 kg (15 lbs)
- Maximum dimensions: Height: 23 cm (9 in) / Width 36 cm (14 in) / Length 56 cm (22 in)
In addition to the standard carry-on, passengers may bring one small personal item, such as:
- A small handbag
- A laptop bag
- A small backpack
- A camera bag
- A briefcase
premium economy
Premium economy passengers are allowed:
- 1 carry-on bag with a maximum weight of 7 kg (15 lbs)
- Maximum dimensions: Height 23 cm (9 in) / Width 36 cm (14 in) / Length 56 cm (22 in)
Travelers may also bring one small personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, small backpack, camera bag, or briefcase.
Business class
Business class passengers are allowed:
- 1 carry-on bag with a maximum weight of 10 kg (22 lbs)
- Maximum dimensions: Height 23 cm (9 in) / Width 36 cm (14 in) / Length 56 cm (22 in)
Additionally, passengers can bring one small personal item (handbag, laptop bag, small backpack, camera bag, or briefcase).
First class
First class passengers are allowed:
- 1 carry-on bag with a maximum weight of 15 kg (33 lbs)
- Maximum dimensions: Height: 23 cm (9 in) Width: 36 cm (14 in) Length: 56 cm (22 in)
They may also bring one small personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, small backpack, camera bag, or briefcase.
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Cabin baggage for Members of The Marco Polo Club
Cathay Pacific Marco Polo Club members with a confirmed seat may bring:
- 1 carry-on bag with a maximum size of:
- Height: 56 cm (22 in) Width 23 cm (9 in) Length 36 cm (14 in)
Additionally, they are allowed one small personal item, which must fit under the seat in front of them, with maximum dimensions of 15 cm × 30 cm × 40 cm (6 in × 12 in × 16 in).
Will They Put Luggage in the Sizer?
While Cathay Pacific doesn’t place every bag in the sizer, they can ask you to place your bag in the sizer if it looks oversized.
If your bag doesn’t fit within the dimensions (56 x 36 x 23 cm / 22 x 14 x 9 in), you may be required to check it in.
What is Cathay Pacific Airways Checked baggage allowance?
Economy class
Most economy class passengers: 2 pieces, total weight of 30 kg (66 lbs)
Flights to/from/via the Americas: 2 pieces, 23 kg (50 lbs) each
Direct flights between Hong Kong and Auckland/Christchurch: 1 piece, 23 kg (50 lbs)
Business class
Most business class passengers: 2 pieces, total weight of 40 kg (88 lbs)
Flights to/from/via the Americas: 2 pieces, 32 kg (70 lbs) each
Direct flights between Hong Kong and Auckland / Christchurch: 3 pieces, 23 kg (50 lbs) each
First class
Most first class passengers: 3 pieces, total weight of 50 kg (110 lbs)
Flights to / from / via the Americas: 2 pieces, 32 kg (70 lbs) each
Cathay Pacific Airways Check-in baggage allowance for infants less than 2 years old
Most flights: Total of 10 kg (22 lbs) (maximum 2 pieces) + 1 car seat & 1 stroller
Direct flights between Hong Kong and Auckland/Christchurch: 1 piece, 23 kg (50 lbs) (max. dimension: 158 cm)
Flights to / from the Americas: 1 piece with the same weight allowance as an adult ticket in the same class (max. dimension: 115 cm)
Cathay pacific airways excess baggage
If you need to bring extra baggage, Cathay Pacific allows passengers to purchase additional baggage for a fee.
Excess Baggage Charges by Zone:
Zone 1 – Asia & Selected Routes
- Mainland China, Macao SAR, Taiwan
- Central / East Asia: Japan, Kazakhstan, Mongolia, Russia (Asia), South Korea
- Southeast Asia: Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam
- Selected routes: Within Australia, within Malaysia, between Taiwan and Japan / South Korea, between Thailand and Singapore, between UAE and Bahrain
Zone 2 – South Asia
- Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka
Zone 3 – Middle East
- Bahrain, Israel, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE
Zone 4 – Europe, Africa, South West Pacific
- Europe: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UK
- Africa: South Africa
- South West Pacific: Australia, Fiji, New Zealand
Cathay Pacific Airways Restricted baggage
Cathay Pacific follows TSA (Transportation Security Administration) guidelines, meaning certain items are restricted or prohibited in checked and carry-on baggage.
Make sure your luggage complies with the airline’s regulations. For more details, read our guide on what not to pack in checked baggage.
Final Thoughts
Cathay Pacific has clear baggage policies for both carry-on and checked luggage.
The airline enforces strict weight and size limits for carry-on bags.
Passengers must comply with the airline’s restrictions to avoid additional fees.
Packing efficiently and following these guidelines will ensure a hassle-free travel experience with one of the world’s premier airlines.
I hope this helps
Happy travels
Helpful links
Disclaimer: some information are gathered from these web pages: cathaypacific.com
