Airlines enforce stricter carry-on rules

[WORLD] In recent months, several major airlines have intensified enforcement of carry-on baggage policies, citing overcrowded overhead bins, safety issues, and a surge in creative packing strategies. This crackdown aims to streamline boarding processes and ensure passenger safety, but it has sparked debates among travelers and industry experts.

Why the Crackdown?

Airlines like United, American, and Southwest have reported increasing complaints from passengers about limited overhead bin space due to oversized or excessive carry-on luggage. To address this, United Airlines has implemented stricter enforcement of its carry-on size limits, reminding passengers that bags exceeding the standard dimensions may need to be checked at the gate .

Additionally, the rise of "packing hacks" shared on social media—such as stuffing clothes into travel pillows or layering extra outfits—has led to more passengers attempting to circumvent baggage fees. Airlines are now actively discouraging these practices to maintain fairness and efficiency during boarding.

The Financial Incentive

Baggage fees have become a significant revenue stream for airlines, with the U.S. airline industry alone earning over $33 billion from ancillary fees in 2023 . By enforcing stricter carry-on policies, airlines aim to ensure that passengers comply with size and weight limits, potentially increasing the number of checked bags and associated fees.

For instance, Air Canada introduced a policy in January 2025 charging basic-economy travelers an extra fee for bringing larger carry-on luggage on flights within the Americas. The policy has attracted criticism from Canadian lawmakers, including Federal Transport Minister Anita Anand, highlighting the growing trend of airlines monetizing carry-on baggage.

Technological Measures and Standardization

To enforce carry-on policies more effectively, some airlines are adopting new technologies. For example, Finnair has trialed weighing passengers along with their carry-on bags at Helsinki Airport to refine calculations for aircraft balance and operational efficiency . These measures aim to improve load management and reduce operational issues like delayed flights or misplaced baggage.

Moreover, the International Air Transport Association (IATA) has recommended standardized carry-on dimensions of 22 inches (56 cm) in length, 14 inches (36 cm) in width, and 9 inches (23 cm) in depth. This initiative seeks to simplify packing and boarding processes, ensuring that carry-ons fit uniformly in overhead compartments across different airlines.

What Travelers Need to Know

As airlines tighten carry-on policies, travelers are advised to:

Check Airline Policies: Review specific carry-on size and weight limits for your airline before packing.

Measure Your Bag: Use a tape measure to ensure your carry-on complies with the airline's dimensions.

Avoid Packing Hacks: Refrain from using creative packing strategies that may violate airline policies.

Arrive Early: Allow extra time at the airport to accommodate potential bag checks or adjustments.

By adhering to these guidelines, travelers can help ensure a smoother and more efficient boarding experience.

The recent crackdown on oversized carry-ons reflects airlines' efforts to enhance operational efficiency and safety. While these measures may lead to increased fees, they also aim to standardize baggage policies and reduce boarding delays. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about their airline's policies and prepare accordingly to navigate these changes effectively.