British Airways Introduces Simplified Baggage Policy

Strategic Insights -

As part of its efforts to make airport experiences smoother and quicker for its customers, British Airways is introducing a new simplified baggage policy. The policy aims to reduce queues and confusion at airports by consolidating existing policies and introducing standardized allowances for both hand and checked baggage. According to Robin Hayes, Executive Vice President of The Americas, the airline's goal is to make the airport experience easier to understand and speedier.

Key Takeaways:

  • The new baggage policy will be phased in across British Airways' global network from early July, with changes to hand baggage allowances starting on July 5, 2006.
  • Passengers will be allowed to carry one standard-sized bag (56cm x 45cm x 25cm) and one briefcase, laptop computer bag, or equivalent on all flights.
  • Weight restrictions will be removed for hand baggage, but passengers must be able to lift their bag unaided into the overhead lockers.
  • The airline is introducing a single allowance system for free checked-in baggage, based on the number of bags, which will vary according to class of travel and route.
  • The maximum weight for any checked bag will be reduced to 23kg (50lbs) to comply with health and safety recommendations.
  • Excess baggage charges will be standardized and will be dependent on journey length, with discounts available for pre-payment online.
  • The policy applies to British Airways' mainline services only, excluding BA Connect and franchise partners.

Statistics:

  • British Airways will allow one piece of sporting equipment (such as golf clubs and skis) per customer to be checked in free of charge in addition to their checked baggage allowance.
  • The airline's new excess baggage charges will apply to all customers and are dependent on journey length.
  • The maximum amount a customer will pay for an excess bag will be GBP 120.
  • Passengers will benefit from a 20% discount on excess baggage charges if they pay online at www.ba.com/managemybooking.

Sources:

  • British Airways PLC, "British Airways introduces new baggage policy to make airport experience simpler", PRIMEZONE, June 13, 2006
  • PrimeZone, www.primezone.com (no date)
  • Comtex SmarTrend(SM) Alert, "DOWNTREND on 03-08-2006 for BAB @ $55.13", Comtex News Network, Inc., June 9, 2006