International agency pushes for smaller bags,

‘Optimal’ dimensions created to end frustration for passengers

How many times have you boarded an airplane to find the overhead bins are already jammed, and there’s no room for your carry-on bag?

Airlines realize it’s becoming a common occurrence, and increasingly frustrating, as more people try to drag even more luggage on board, given that checked bag fees have now become commonplace.

The International Air Transport Association (IATA), which represents 250 airlines around the world, has come up with optimal dimensions for carry-on bags, arguing it’s time for universal rules.

The new dimensions, introduced at the group’s meeting this week in Miami, are not binding, though nine airlines have signed on including Lufthansa, Cathay Pacific, Emirates and Qatar Airways.

The new size would be 55 cm tall by 35 cm wide by 20 cm deep, or 21.5 inches by 13.5 inches by 7.5 inches. The change “means that theoretically everyone should have a chance to store their carryon bags on board aircraft of 120 seats or larger,” according to a news release.

“The development of an agreed optimal cabin bag size will bring common sense and order to the problem of differing sizes for carry-on bags,” said Tom Windmuller, IATA’s senior vice-president for airport, passenger, cargo and security, in the news release.

“We know the current situation can be frustrating for passengers. This work will help to iron out inconsistencies and lead to an improved passenger experience,” he added.

However, no airlines in Canada or the United States have announced plans to join the proposed slimmed-down rules.

Porter Airlines allows carry-on bags of 55 cm by 40 cm by 23 cm, or 22 inches by 16 inches by 9 inches.

WestJet Airlines permits a carry-on bag that does not exceed 53 cm by 38 cm by 23 cm, or 21 inches by 15 inches by 9 inches.

“This work will help to iron out inconsistencies and lead to an improved passenger experience.” TOM WINDMULLER INTERNATIONAL AIR TRANSPORT ASSOCIATION’S VICE-PRESIDENT

Air Canada, whose CEO Calin Rovinescu just completed a yearlong term as IATA chairman, said it was satisfied with its current dimensions.

“Nonetheless, we support the general concept of harmonizing carryon requirements across the industry as it would make it easier for customers, particularly those connecting between different airlines,” said spokesman Peter Fitzpatrick.

Air Canada, which is now tagging all carry-on luggage at Pearson airport, limits bags to 55 centimetres by 40 centimetres by 23 centimetres, or 21.5 inches by 15.5 inches by 9 inches, including wheels and handles.

Luggage that doesn’t meet the rules must be checked, and would be subject to the airline’s usual $25 checked bag fee.

It expanded the carry-on tagging system to Vancouver, Calgary and Montreal airports this week.

“The tagging process is rolling out smoothly as most customers are now familiar with the allowances,” Fitzpatrick said in an email. “We have also seen some operational improvements as a result and customers certainly appreciate these benefits.”

Brian Robertson, chief operating officer of Vision Travel, a travel man- agement company, says business travellers still prefer to fly only with carry-on luggage.

“Part of the problem is the airlines are using these ancillary fees for revenue,” he said. “They are encouraging people who don’t want to pay $25 to check a bag to bring it on board.”

The biggest problem is when it comes time to board, if passengers are lucky enough to be at the front of the plane, or have frequent flyer sta- tus with a carrier, they can board first and find a place for their bags. Those boarding later find there’s no room for their carry-on.

At U.S. airports, Robertson says often people boarding later know there won’t be room for the bags and get it checked for free. “It was an art. I could see people doing it,” he said.

“A standard would be good as long as various regions of the world agree on standard,” he added.