As the festive season approaches, which brings with it a substantial increase in passenger traffic, Airport Company South Africa (ACSA) has reminded passengers of hand baggage regulations.
The regulations, applicable throughout ACSA’s entire airport network, aim to identify passengers with non-compliant items before reaching the security checkpoint.
Those passengers who do not comply will be directed back to check-in counters to transfer their baggage to check-in baggage.
“ACSA commends the aviation industry, in particular BARSA and AASA, for their support in this initiative and wishes to notify travellers that, although the regulations are not new, they will be rigorously enforced by ACSA, its partners, and stakeholders,” said Laurene Less, Group Executive: Corporate Services at ACSA.
The objective is not only to efficiently manage the surge in travellers but also to bolster efforts in combating criminal activities.
“From a passenger safety perspective, the hand baggage regulations aim to identify overweight luggage that could pose risks to both aircraft and passengers,” added Aaron Munetsi, CEO of Airlines Association of Southern Africa (AASA).
“We strongly encourage compliance with these regulations, as failure to adhere will necessitate redirecting passengers to check-in counters for luggage check-in.”
According to the regulations, the hand baggage allowance is as follows:
- Economy-class passengers: one bag plus one slimline laptop bag or handbag,
- First-class passengers: two bags plus a slimline laptop bag,
- Bags may not exceed the total dimensions of 56cm x 36cm x 23cm,
- Weight limit per bag: 7kg,
- Passengers who exceed the hand luggage limit will be subject to the specific airline’s excess baggage rules.