Words by Carlie Tucker
Last week, Cathay Pacific and Dragonair released the details of their new enhanced worldwide baggage policy, which has seen an increase in checked baggage allowances and reduced excess baggage fees on most flights.
From the 15th of September 2016, all passengers, regardless of cabin class, will have access to an additional 10-kilograms for their checked baggage allowance. This additional allowance will be applicable for all tickets issued or exchanged on or after the September 15 start date.
Cathay Pacific's new policy aims to improve check-in efficiency while reducing lines at airports across the airline's network by following a combined weight and luggage piece system. For example, those flying Business Class, Premium Economy and Economy Class will be allowed to check two pieces of luggage with a total weight of 40-, 35- and 30-kilograms respectively free of charge. First Class passengers will be allowed three pieces with a combined weight of 50-kilograms free of charge.
Marco Polo Club members Silver, Gold and Diamond members stand to benefit even more with additional increases. Those holding Silver, Gold and Diamond status will receive a 10-, 15- and 20-kilogram increase respectively. Passengers with Gold and Diamond status will also be entitled to one additional piece on top of their travel class allowance.
This is how it breaks down:
| Non Member/Green Status | Silver | Gold/Sapphire | Diamond/Emerald | ||||
Kg (Total) | Pieces (Total) | Kg (Total) | Pieces (Total) | Kg (Total) | Pieces (Total) | Kg (Total) | Pieces (Total) | |
First Class | 50 | 3 | +10kg | 3 | +15kg | 4 | +20kg | 4 |
Business Class | 40 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | |||
Premium Economy | 35 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | |||
Economy | 30 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | |||
Infant | 10 | 2 | - | - | - | - | - | - |
Dragonair has also taken this opportunity to improve their carry-on baggage policy, announcing an increase to seven-kilograms for passengers flying Economy and Premium Economy. Business and First Class passengers will enjoy carry-on allowances of 10- and 15-kilograms respectively.
Along with the revised allowance system, both airlines have revamped their excess baggage zoning and fee policy to fall in line with global industry standards. This means that many passengers will see a drop of up to 40% in excess baggage fees, depending on departure and arrival zones.
The new excess baggage policy looks like this:
$US/Kg | To Hong Kong | To Zone 1 | To Zone 2 | To Zone 3 | To Zone 4 |
From Hong Kong | - | $10 | $15 | $20 | $35 |
From Zone 1 | $10 | $12 | $15 | $25 | $35 |
From Zone 2 | $15 | $15 | $30 | $32 | $35 |
From Zone 3 | $20 | $25 | $32 | $35 | $60 |
From Zone 4 | $35 | $35 | $35 | $60 | $60 |
For more information on booking Cathay Pacific or Dragonair flights, contact one of our Travel Managers on 1300 797 826.
