Passengers should confirm the operator’s allowance in advance. Typical per-piece weight limits are 23 kg (50 lb) for standard economy and 32 kg (70 lb) for higher classes; common maximum linear dimensions are 158 cm (length + width + height). Many carriers use either a piece-based or weight-based system–pre-purchase excess allowance online to reduce airport surcharges.
Restricted items: spare lithium-ion batteries and power banks must stay in the cabin with terminals insulated; devices with installed batteries are usually permitted in the hold but carry a risk of damage, so place high-value electronics in hand-carried bags. Firearms and sporting weapons require advance declaration, locked hard cases and relevant permits; compressed gases, flammable liquids and explosives are generally forbidden in both cabin and stowage compartments unless transported under an approved dangerous-goods procedure.
Practical steps: weigh and measure bags at home, use hard-sided cases for fragile gear, keep medicines and essential documents in carry-on, print or save the carrier’s baggage policy and restricted-items list, and arrive early when declaring special or oversized items (allow an extra 30–60 minutes for processing). If uncertainty remains, contact the airline’s customer service with model and weight/specs of the item for written confirmation.
Registered Baggage Policy for the Carrier
Register personal bags at the ticket counter and comply with published weight and size limits to avoid excess charges; typical regional allocations range from 15–23 kg per piece or a combined 20–30 kg per passenger depending on fare and route–confirm allowance on the booking confirmation.
- Dimensions: maximum linear measurement usually 158 cm (length + width + height); oversized items incur special handling fees.
- Overweight/oversize fees: charged either per kilogram or per piece–prepay extra weight online when available to reduce counter rates.
- Sports equipment and surfboards: require advance notice and may need special booking and fees; fragile instruments often require crate or pallet service.
Packed contents rules
- Liquids: quantities over 100 ml must be placed inside registered baggage; aerosol restrictions apply and many flammables are prohibited.
- Batteries: lithium-ion power banks and loose cells are permitted only in the cabin; installed batteries in devices may be allowed in hold if terminals are protected–check operator guidance before travel.
- Prohibited items: flammable liquids, explosives, compressed gases, and other dangerous goods are strictly forbidden in both cabin and hold unless prior approval obtained.
Packing and fragile-item recommendations
- Glassware and ceramics: use a rigid outer case, 5–10 cm of cushioning around each piece, and separation with foam or corrugated dividers; clearly mark the case FRAGILE and hand to staff at drop-off for fragile-tag request.
- Pyrex and ovenproof bowls: avoid loose placement in checked/registered baggage; when transport is necessary, wrap each bowl individually, place inside a rigid container, and include the manufacturer link for storage guidance: are pyrex glass bowls freezer safe.
- Valuables and important documents: keep in carry-on/cabin items rather than registered baggage whenever possible.
Arrival and drop-off: arrive at the airport at least 60 minutes before departure for domestic regional flights and 90–120 minutes for international sectors; allow extra time when declaring oversized or fragile items at the ticket desk.
Hold baggage allowance by route and fare class
Select the fare that matches required hold baggage at booking: Light fares include cabin bag only (max 7 kg, 55×35×20 cm); Standard typically includes 15–20 kg; Flex/Plus usually allows 20–25 kg; Premium/Business commonly permits 1–2 pieces up to 23–32 kg per piece on longer or international sectors.
Allowance matrix (typical examples)
Short regional hops (flights under ~60 minutes): Light – cabin bag only (7 kg); Standard – 15 kg; Flex – 20 kg; Premium – 25 kg single piece.
Domestic trunk/inter-island (60–120 minutes): Standard – 20 kg; Flex – 25 kg; Premium – 2×23 kg or 1×32 kg where piece concept applies.
International and charter sectors: Most higher fare classes switch to piece concept: 1×23 kg on mid fares, 2×23 kg on premium fares; Light fares frequently exclude hold allowance.
Practical recommendations
Weigh bags at home and distribute weight across pieces to avoid per-piece overweight charges; soft-sided bags compress better into contracted weight limits. Purchase extra allowance online before departure – pre-purchase rates are usually lower than airport fees. For items exceeding 32 kg or oversized dimensions, arrange freight or special cargo rather than standard passenger allowance. Always confirm the exact allowance printed on the booking confirmation or the carrier’s published fare rules for the specific route and fare code.
How to register and tag hold baggage at airline counters
Arrive at the ticketing desk at least 90 minutes before domestic departures and 150 minutes before international departures; add 30–60 minutes for peak periods or small regional terminals.
Required documents: passport or government ID, booking reference, visas where applicable and any required health paperwork; boarding pass must be presented prior to acceptance of hold items.
At the counter: the agent places the item on the scale, records gross weight and prints a routing tag showing origin–destination IATA codes and a unique tag number. Special-handling stickers (fragile, heavy, priority, wet) are affixed as needed. Retain the printed receipt/tag stub until final collection for transfers, baggage tracing or damage claims.
Fees and weight handling: allowances differ by fare class and route; excess weight is charged per kilogram or by extra piece. Market examples: overweight penalties typically $15–$50 per kg; extra-piece fees commonly $70–$200 on international sectors; oversize surcharges often $50–$200. Counters accept major credit/debit cards and usually cash; request a written receipt for any paid surcharges.
Self-service bag drop: where available, print the bag tag at a kiosk, attach it to the handle, then place the item on the conveyor scale. Follow on-screen prompts, collect the tag receipt, and confirm the printed tag number matches the receipt; an agent may perform a final scan.
Special items and restrictions: declare sports equipment, musical instruments, fragile goods or odd-shaped items at ticketing prior to travel; some items require advance booking, special crates or additional fees. Remove spare lithium batteries and transport them in cabin baggage; equipment with installed batteries should have terminals protected. Medications, travel documents, cash and small electronics must remain in cabin baggage.
Inspection and claims: tagged items may be opened for security inspection and resealed with a tamper-evident sticker. The tag number and receipt are the primary evidence for tracing or damage claims–photograph the tag stub if a digital backup is preferred. For damaged or missing items submit a property irregularity report at the airport before leaving the terminal.
Packing tips: distribute weight evenly, use strong, lockable zippers or TSA-accepted locks, sheath sharp objects and pad fragile contents. Compact automatic umbrellas should be folded and secured; model guidance available at best auto open close travel umbrella.
Prohibited and Restricted Items in Hold Baggage
Avoid placing spare lithium-ion batteries and power banks in the hold; installed batteries inside devices are acceptable, while spare cells must travel in the cabin. Watt-hour rules: up to 100 Wh allowed in cabin without prior approval; 100–160 Wh allowed only with carrier approval (typically max two units per passenger); over 160 Wh prohibited in both cabin and hold. Lithium metal batteries containing more than 2 g of lithium are forbidden.
Firearms require declaration, must be unloaded and locked in a hard-sided case; ammunition should be in original packaging or in secure ammo boxes and is often restricted to small quantities. Advance notification to the carrier and compliance with export/import laws are mandatory; certain routes or countries ban transport of weapons entirely.
Explosives, fireworks, detonators, military ordnance and blasting caps are strictly prohibited. Flammable liquids (gasoline, paint thinners, some solvents), flammable solids (magnesium, loose match heads), oxidizers and corrosives (acids, bleach) must not be packed in the hold. Small toiletry aerosols can be limited by both quantity and pressure-rated packaging–follow carrier guidance.
Compressed gas cylinders (butane, propane, camping gas) are generally forbidden unless specifically approved for medical use and properly documented and labeled. Dry ice (solid carbon dioxide) is often permitted up to 2.5 kg when packaged to allow venting and declared to the carrier; limits vary by airline and destination.
E-cigarettes and vaping devices must stay in the cabin; spare cartridges and spare batteries follow the lithium-battery restrictions. Integrated high-capacity battery packs (heated boots, heated clothing, power tool batteries) frequently require removal or carrier approval prior to transport.
Sharp tools and sporting implements (knives, ice axes, axes, screwdrivers) are not allowed in the cabin but may be transported in the hold if sheathed and packed to prevent injury. For skis and snowboards, use a dedicated, padded hard case or ski bag and protect bindings and edges; see best luggage for skiing trip for recommended options and sizing guidance.
Valuables–cash, passports, essential documents, laptops, cameras, irreplaceable jewelry–and prescription medications requiring temperature control should remain in the cabin. Perishables, plants and certain foods are subject to quarantine and customs restrictions at the destination; verify destination rules before packing.
Declare all hazardous goods at the ticket counter or cargo desk; undeclared dangerous items found by security may result in fines, confiscation or criminal charges. When unsure, consult the carrier’s dangerous-goods table and the national aviation authority for route-specific prohibitions, documentation requirements and permissible quantities.
Purchase extra allowance online before arrival – online pre-purchase is significantly cheaper than paying at the airport counter.
Advance purchase reduces fees and ensures availability for larger items. Add weight during booking or via Manage Booking; invoices accept major credit/debit cards and online bank transfer where supported. Airport counters accept cash (local currency) and cards, but card terminals may be limited on smaller routes.
Weight limits by route and fare category
Route | Fare category | Included hold allowance | Max single-piece weight | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Major trunk (e.g., capital ↔ resort) | Economy | 15 kg | 32 kg | Piece concept applies for bulky items; any single item >32 kg requires advance approval |
Major trunk | Business | 25 kg | 32 kg | Priority handling included |
Inter-island/short-haul | Economy | 10 kg | 23 kg | Smaller aircraft limits; oversized items may be refused without prior arrangement |
Charter / special cargo | By arrangement | Defined per contract | Up to 32 kg per piece typical | Advance booking mandatory for sporting equipment, musical instruments or freight |
Excess weight fees and how charges are calculated
Excess charges follow a weight-based or piece-based model depending on the fare. Weight-based routes charge per kilogram; rounding is to the next whole kilogram. Piece-based fares charge per extra bag regardless of exact weight within allowed single-piece limit.
Typical fee schedule (examples): online pre-purchase ₱120–₱200 per extra kg; airport counter ₱220–₱350 per extra kg; extra piece fee ₱800–₱1,500 per piece depending on route. Heavy/odd-sized items incur a separate handling surcharge (₱1,500+), and advance approval may require a cargo waybill.
Payment methods: add allowance online with card during booking or via Manage Booking; pay at the airport counter with cash (local currency) or card; some regional terminals accept mobile wallets. Retain receipts for reconciling excess charges or refunds.
How to file a claim for lost, delayed or damaged hold baggage with the carrier
Report the incident at the carrier’s baggage service desk immediately upon arrival and obtain a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) or incident reference before leaving the airport.
Required documents for any claim: boarding pass, baggage tag receipt(s), passport or photo ID, PIR/reference number, travel itinerary, photos of damage or missing items, and original purchase receipts for high-value articles and emergency purchases made during delay.
For damaged items: keep the bag and contents available for inspection by the carrier. File a written damage complaint with the carrier within 7 calendar days of baggage receipt. Attach photos showing the bag exterior, interior, item serial numbers and packaging, plus repair or replacement estimates when available.
For delayed bags: submit a delay claim within 21 calendar days from the date the bag was returned to the passenger or from the date of arrival if the bag never arrived. Include original receipts for essential purchases (toiletries, clothing) and a short timeline of communications with the carrier, plus the PIR number.
For presumed loss: if the bag remains undelivered after carrier’s handling period (commonly 21 days), file a loss claim with the PIR reference and a full inventory of contents with values and receipts where available. Indicate whether full replacement or cash settlement is preferred.
How to submit: use the carrier’s official online claim form when available; if submitting by email, use the dedicated claims address posted on the carrier’s website and include PIR number in the subject line. When sending physical documents, use tracked delivery and keep copies.
Minimum attachments to attach to any claim: PIR/incident reference, boarding pass, baggage tag photo, government ID, photos of damage or missing item evidence, and receipts for claimed values. Clearly label each attachment and reference the flight number and date in the claim text.
Sample claim header (use in web form or email subject): Claim – PIR [reference] – Flight [number] – Date [DD/MM/YYYY] – Lost/Delayed/Damaged.
Expected timetable and follow-up: request a written acknowledgement and case number on submission. Typical acknowledgement arrives within 7–14 days; resolution timelines vary (often 4–12 weeks). If no response within the carrier’s published timeframe, escalate to the local airport office of the carrier and retain all correspondence for regulatory review.
If settlement under international rules is sought, reference the applicable convention limits and ask the carrier to confirm whether the claim will be processed under those rules or under the carrier’s contract of carriage; request a written explanation of any liability caps applied.
Maintain a detailed spreadsheet of communications: date, contact name, method (phone/email/desk), reference number and agreed next steps. If reception is unsatisfactory, collect written refusal or incomplete responses for submission to consumer protection authorities or a small claims tribunal.
FAQ:
Can I bring checked luggage on AirSwift flights?
Policies vary by route, aircraft and ticket type. Some AirSwift services use small aircraft or helicopters with very limited hold space, so checked bags may be restricted or need prior approval. Check the baggage allowance shown on your booking confirmation or on AirSwift’s official site, or contact their customer service before travel. If checked baggage is permitted, follow the airline’s size and weight rules and allow extra time at the airport to drop it off.
What are common weight and size limits for checked bags on AirSwift?
Limits depend on the specific flight. For larger commuter flights the allowance can resemble standard regional carriers (for example, a single checked piece up to 20 kg and dimensions up to about 158 cm linear), while for air taxi/helicopter sectors limits are often much tighter (sometimes 10–15 kg or smaller). Use your booking details as the final source. To measure linear size, add length + width + height. If your bag exceeds the stated allowance, expect excess-baggage charges or the need to redistribute items into carry-on pieces.
Which items should not go in checked baggage on AirSwift?
Certain goods are prohibited or restricted for checked carriage. Do not place spare lithium batteries, loose power banks, or other uninstalled high-capacity batteries in checked bags—these belong in carry-on only. Flammable liquids, explosives, and corrosives are banned. Firearms may be allowed only with advance notification and proper documentation, and can require special handling. Valuable items, travel documents, essential medicines and fragile electronics are safer in cabin baggage. Check both AirSwift rules and the regulatory list for dangerous goods before packing.
How can I pay for extra or overweight checked baggage on AirSwift?
Payment options vary. Many passengers can add and pay for extra or overweight baggage online while managing their booking, often at a lower rate than at the airport. If not pre-purchased, fees are normally payable at check-in at the airport counter by card or cash where accepted. Rates depend on route and the amount of excess weight or number of extra pieces, so review the airline’s fee schedule or contact customer service to get exact charges ahead of arrival.
How early should I arrive if I have checked luggage for an AirSwift flight?
Plan extra time compared with carry-on only travel. For small-aircraft or island-transfer flights, arrive at least 60–90 minutes before departure to complete baggage drop, weighing and any documentation checks. For larger scheduled flights follow the airline’s stated check-in cutoff times; many carriers ask passengers with checked luggage to arrive at least two hours before domestic departures and three hours before international departures. Confirm the required check-in cutoff on your itinerary so you avoid denied boarding.