Are we about to see a luggage war break out between Australian airlines and their Gulf counterparts?
Virgin Australia and Etihad Airways are increasing the complimentary checked baggage allowance in economy class to 30kg, up from the previous 23kg for flights from Australia to Abu Dhabi and beyond.
Members of the Virgin Australia Velocity and Etihad Guest frequent flyer programs can pile on even more, with Velocity Platinum and Etihad Guest Elite covered for up to 50kg of free baggage.
The generous new allowances start today, November 6th.
For flights operated by Etihad Airways, the new guidelines also allow for additional complimentary check-in of some sporting equipment.
Earlier this year Virgin and Etihad increased the baggage allowance for premium passengers, which now stands at 40kg for business class and 50kg for first class.
David Flynn is the Editor-in-Chief of Executive Traveller and a bit of a travel tragic with a weakness for good coffee, shopping and lychee martinis.
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
25 May 2012
Total posts 580
To be fair, Qantas Platinums already enjoy 3x 32kg checked baggage and Golds enjoy at least 2x 32kg (on non-US routes). The only mismatch is where Qantas allows only 23kg on Economy for those with less than Silver status. Hopefully this will be matched to Emirates' 30kg baseline allowance.
30 Oct 2012
Total posts 23
Given how expensive fuel is I'm surprised they decided to increase the baggage allowance
24 Oct 2011
Total posts 159
those poor luggage handlers and their backs!
i hope they have good health insurance.
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
05 Jun 2012
Total posts 54
As a business traveller how many actually check in luggage? The last time I checked something in was because someone decided my International carry on needed to be checked in
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