From the beginning of September 2010, the cost of an economy ticket will include a single check-in item of luggage with a maximum weight of 23 kilos. The previous limit was 20 kilos. The maximum permitted combined measurements of the bag (height plus length plus width) will be 158 centimeters.
The aim of the new rules is to serve customers better and to clarify the procedure,’ said Anssi Komulainen, Finnair’s SVP Customer Service. “Economy Class passengers can now take a heavier bag on their flight than before as part of the price of the flight.’
Business Class passengers, Finnair Plus Platinum, Gold and Silver members, oneworld tier members and holders of more highly-priced economy class tickets will be permitted to take two items of baggage, each weighing a maximum of 23 kilos, totalling 46 kilos.
Finnair is also extending the option of paying for excess bags and weight online and in advance. From 1 September 2010, payments of excess baggage and weight fees paid on the Internet will be as much as 30% cheaper than when paid at the airport.
The new rules apply also to passengers who buy only flight tickets on Finnair leisure flights (AY2001-AY3000) on or after 1 September 2010. The rules for passengers traveling as part of a tour operator package will change 1 April 2011.
Rules for carry-on baggage remain unchanged:
-Business Class, Finnair Plus Platinum, Gold and Silver members and Finnair Club members: one bag with the maximum outside dimensions of 56×45x25 cm or 22×18x10 in., plus one briefcase or laptop computer, regardless of travel class. A total of two pieces, with a maximum combined weight of 10 kg or 22 lbs.
-Economy Class: one class-flights, flights within Finland and leisure flights: one bag with the maximum outside dimensions of 56×45x25 cm or 22×18x10 in. One piece only, with a maximum weight of 8kg or 17.5 lbs.
Caveat emptor is the watchword for airline travelers in whatever class to check carefully rules for both checked and carry-on baggage – especially if they are ‘interlining’ from one carrier to another on multi-sector flights – especially when transferring from a legacy carrier to a no-frills operator.