Austrian Airlines is the flag carrier airline of Austria, operating both domestic and international flights to various destinations across Europe and worldwide.
Like many other airlines, Austrian Airlines has specific rules and regulations for carry-on luggage.
Understanding these guidelines before your flight is important to avoid unnecessary fees at the airport.
In this blog post, I will cover everything you need to know about Austrian Airlines carry-on and checked baggage policies including size and weight restrictions, personal item allowances, prohibited items, gate check policies, and helpful tips for smooth travel.
Let’s dive in.
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What Are Austrian Airlines Carry On Baggage Allowance?
All Austrian Airlines passengers traveling in Economy and Premium Economy class are allowed:
- One carry-on bag
- Max dimensions: 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.6 x 15.7 x 9 in)
- Max weight: 8 kg (17.6 lbs)
- One personal item
- Max dimensions: 40 x 30 x 10 cm (15.7 x 11.8 x 3.9 in)
- Must fit under the seat in front of you
- Can be a handbag, laptop bag, or shoulder bag
Business Class passengers are allowed:
- Two carry-on bags : Each up to 55 x 40 x 23 cm (21.6 x 15.7 x 9 in) and 8 kg (17.6 lbs)
- One personal item: Same size as Economy and Premium Economy class.
Depending on the aircraft type or safety regulations of national authorities, Business Class passengers may be limited to one carry-on bag in exceptional cases.
My Main Carry-on Bag Is Slightly Above the Size Limit, What Will Happen?
If your carry-on bag slightly exceeds the size limit (55 x 40 x 23 cm / 21.6 x 15.7 x 9 in), Austrian Airlines staff may ask you to check it in.
In many cases, if the flight is not full and there is space in the cabin, the bag might still be allowed onboard, but this depends on the gate agent.
If it doesn’t fit in the baggage sizer or overhead bins, you’ll likely have to check it and you may be charged depending on your ticket type.
It’s always safest to check your bag dimensions before traveling, including any handles and wheels, to avoid surprises.
My Main Carry-on Bag Is Slightly Above the Weight Limit, What Will Happen?
Austrian Airlines carry-on weight limit is 8 kg (17.6 lbs) per bag.
If your bag is slightly overweight, you may be asked to repack, transfer items to your personal item, or check the bag in.
This could result in an excess baggage fee, especially if your ticket doesn’t include checked baggage.
Gate agents may not always weigh carry-ons, but this varies by airport and flight capacity.
On full or intercontinental flights, enforcement is typically stricter.
Liquid Restrictions
To prevent the threat of liquid explosives, the EU has regulations limiting the transport of liquids in hand luggage.
These rules apply to passengers departing from or connecting through EU airports.
Liquids include:
- Pastes
- Lotions
- Mixtures of liquids and solids
- Pressure container contents (e.g., toothpaste, hair gel, drinks, soups, syrups, perfumes, shaving foam)
Always check the latest regulations on your departure airport’s official website.
What to Expect If You Get Caught?
If you’re caught with a carry-on that’s too large or heavy, here’s what you can expect:
- Gate check: Your bag may be tagged and placed in the cargo hold.
- Fees: You might be charged for excess or checked baggage, especially under Economy Light fares.
- Delays: You may be delayed at security or boarding, which can be stressful especially if you’re rushing.
To avoid this, it’s better to stay within the size and weight limits, and when in doubt, check your airline confirmation or use a luggage scale at home.
What Is Austrian Airlines Checked Baggage Allowance?
Passengers are allowed a free checked baggage allowance based on their ticket class and route.
- Max dimensions per bag: 158 cm (62.2 in) total (L + W + H)
Here’s a general breakdown:
European Routes
| Fare Type | Baggage Allowance |
|---|---|
| Economy Light | No baggage included |
| Economy Classic/Flex | 1 x 23 kg (50.7 lbs) |
| Business Class | 2 x 32 kg (70.5 lbs) |
Intercontinental Routes
| Fare Type | Baggage Allowance (Adults & Children 2+) |
|---|---|
| Economy Light | No baggage included |
| Economy Saver/Basic/Flex | 1 x 23 kg (50.7 lbs) |
| Premium Economy | 2 x 23 kg (50.7 lbs each) |
| Business Class | 2 x 32 kg (70.5 lbs each) |
- Children under 2 years old: 1 x 23 kg (50.7 lbs)
- Frequent Flyer Benefits: Status members (HON Circle, Senator, Star Gold) receive 1 extra piece depending on fare class.
- Is Air Europa strict with baggage?
- How strict is Vueling airlines with carry on?
- Is Swiss airlines strict with baggage?
Prohibited Items
Items not allowed in your carry-on or checked baggage:
- Fireworks and sparklers
- Oxygen cylinders
- Gasoline and fuel paste
- Camping gas
- Oxidizing/corrosive substances
- Tasers
- Paint and alcohol over 70%
- Poison and household chemicals
- Battery-powered transportation devices
Read more about what to take in checked baggage in this post.
Final Thoughts
Austrian Airlines has clear size and weight limits for carry-on and checked baggage, as well as restrictions on certain items.
By reviewing and following these policies, travelers can avoid extra fees and enjoy a smooth, stress-free journey.
I hope this helps
Happy travels
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