Friday, 05 February 2010 06:22
Airports Company South Africa (ACSA) together with domestic airlines are enforcing tighter controls on hand luggage.
With the advent of new check in procedures there has been an increase in hand luggage taken onto local flights. This has caused problems as the stowage space in the passenger cabins has been from time to time unable to cope with the volume. This has resulted in flight delays as luggage was being removed from the passenger cabin and stowed in the cargo hold.
It seems passengers place a premium on "On Time" departures and have welcomed these new regulations. Economy class is restricted to 1 travel bag and 1 laptop per passenger, while business and first class allows 2 bags and a laptop. The maximum size of take on luggage is 56cm X 32cm X 23cm and 7 kilograms.
OR Tambo International has already implemented the new regulations and other airports will follow on 6th February 2010
ACSA recommends the following regarding hand luggage
Keep your hand luggage with you at all times.
Ensure that all zips and fasteners are in good working condition - baggage can move about in the overhead compartment and unsecured items may fall out.
Don't wrap gifts - it is possible that the security teams may wish to view them properly, and will unwrap them.
A change of clothes, or at least underwear and a spare shirt may also be appreciated, either at the end of a long-haul flight, or if hold baggage is delayed.
