Saudia Airlines Baggage Policy +1-866-666-0215

Using Saudia Airlines' baggage policy to plan your trip It is essential to comprehend their baggage policy in order to prevent unforeseen costs and guarantee a hassle-free journey. With a well-organized policy that accommodates various cabin classes, routes, and unique merchandise, Saudia is the official flag carrier of Saudi Arabia. Everything you need to know about flying with Saudia is broken down in this comprehensive guide.

1. Free Checked Baggage Allowance: The Foundation

Your free checked baggage allowance is primarily determined by three factors: Cabin Class, Route Region, and Frequent Flyer Status.

• Cabin Class:

• First Class: Passengers enjoy the most generous allowance. Typically, this includes 3 to 4 pieces of checked baggage, with each piece usually weighing up to 32 kg (70 lbs). Always verify the exact number and weight limit on your specific ticket/booking confirmation.

• Business Class: Offers substantial allowance, generally 2 to 3 pieces of checked baggage, each weighing up to 32 kg (70 lbs). Again, confirm specifics for your route.

• Guest/Falcon (Economy) Class: This is where it gets more variable. The standard free allowance is often 1 piece for most international routes, with a weight limit of 23 kg (50 lbs). However, this is heavily influenced by the route region and ticket type.

• Saudia Premium Economy: Offers an enhanced allowance compared to standard Economy, typically 2 pieces, each up to 23 kg (50 lbs).

• Route Region: This is critical for Economy passengers. Saudia defines different regions, and allowances can vary significantly:

• Saudi Arabia (Domestic): Economy passengers usually get 1 piece up to 23 kg (50 lbs).

• Middle East (Including GCC, Levant, Egypt, Iraq, Iran, etc.): Economy passengers typically get 1 piece up to 23 kg (50 lbs). Some specific routes within this region might offer 2 pieces – always check your booking.

• Africa: Economy passengers usually get 1 piece up to 23 kg (50 lbs).

• Asia (Excluding Middle East): Economy passengers usually get 1 piece up to 23 kg (50 lbs).

• Europe: Economy passengers usually get 1 piece up to 23 kg (50 lbs).

• North America: Economy passengers usually get 1 piece up to 23 kg (50 lbs).

• South America: Economy passengers usually get 1 piece up to 23 kg (50 lbs).

• Australia & Oceania: Economy passengers usually get 1 piece up to 23 kg (50 lbs).

• Frequent Flyer Status (Saudia Airlines Al Fursan Program): Elite tiers (Silver, Gold, Platinum) offer enhanced baggage benefits:

• Silver: +1 additional piece (up to 23 kg) on international flights.

• Gold: +2 additional pieces (up to 23 kg each) on international flights.

• Platinum: +3 additional pieces (up to 23 kg each) on international flights.

• Note: These benefits apply on top of the base allowance for the cabin class and route. Status benefits usually don't increase the weight limit per piece beyond 23 kg in Economy.

Important: The number of pieces and the weight per piece are distinct limits. You cannot combine multiple lighter bags to equal the weight of one heavier bag if the weight limit per piece is exceeded. Exceeding either limit incurs excess baggage fees.

2. Carry-On Baggage Allowance: Essentials Onboard

Saudia allows passengers to bring personal items and a carry-on bag into the cabin:

• Carry-On Bag: One standard piece of carry-on luggage per passenger. Dimensions typically must not exceed 55 x 38 x 20 cm (22 x 15 x 8 inches), including wheels and handles. Weight limits vary:

• First & Business Class: Usually up to 7 kg (15 lbs).

• Economy Class: Usually up to 5 kg (11 lbs).

• Personal Item: In addition to the carry-on bag, you can bring one personal item such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack, provided it fits under the seat in front of you. Dimensions for personal items are generally smaller than the carry-on bag.

3. Excess Baggage Fees: When You Need More

If you exceed your free checked baggage allowance (either in number of pieces or weight per piece), Saudia charges excess fees. These fees are calculated per piece and per kilogram over the limit and can be quite expensive, especially at the airport.

• How Fees are Calculated:

• Per Piece Excess: If you have more pieces than your allowance allows, you pay for each extra piece.

• Per Kilogram Excess: If a single bag exceeds the weight limit for your class/route (e.g., 24kg in Economy where 23kg is max), you pay for the excess weight (e.g., 1kg over).

• Heavy Bag Fee: If a single bag exceeds the maximum permitted weight for any class (usually 32kg), it cannot be checked as a single piece. It must be split into two bags, both within the 32kg limit, and both will incur fees based on the excess over your allowance. Bags over 32kg are generally not accepted for safety reasons.

• Fee Variations: Excess baggage fees vary significantly based on:

• Route Region: Fees are generally higher on long-haul routes (e.g., USA, Asia) compared to regional routes.

• Point of Purchase: Fees are much cheaper if paid online in advance (via Saudia's website or app) compared to paying at the airport counter or kiosk. Airport fees are substantially higher.

• Weight/Size: Fees are calculated per extra kg or per extra piece.

• Pre-Paying Online: Highly Recommended! Saudia allows you to purchase extra baggage online before your flight. This is almost always cheaper than paying at the airport. You can buy extra pieces or extra weight allowances. Log into your booking on the Saudia website to add baggage.

4. Special Items: Oversized, Fragile, and Valuable

• Sports Equipment: Items like golf clubs, skis, bicycles, surfboards, diving equipment, etc., are accepted but incur specific fees and have size/weight restrictions. They often count as part of your free baggage allowance but may require pre-booking and payment of a special handling fee. Check Saudia's website for specific fees and packing requirements for each item type.

• Musical Instruments: Small instruments fitting in the overhead bin can be carried on if space permits. Larger instruments (like cellos, guitars) can be checked as baggage, potentially as part of your allowance or as a separate item with fees. They require specific packaging.

• Mobility Aids: Wheelchairs and other essential mobility aids are carried free of charge, regardless of weight or size, and do not count towards your baggage allowance. Inform Saudia during booking.

• Fragile Items: Saudia accepts fragile items but strongly recommends proper packaging. They are carried at the owner's risk, and Saudia may require a signed liability release form. Consider specialized shipping for extremely valuable or fragile items.

• Valuables: Cash, jewelry, laptops, cameras, important documents, and other high-value items should be carried in your cabin baggage. Saudia's liability for checked baggage is limited.

5. Baggage Allowance Summary Table (Illustrative - Verify for Your Flight!)

Economy Route Variations (Base Allowance is usually 1x23kg):

• Middle East (GCC, Levant, Egypt, Iraq, Iran): Often 1x23kg. Some specific routes may offer 2x23kg - CHECK YOUR BOOKING.

• Africa, Asia (ex-ME), Europe, North America, South America, Australia/Oceania: Typically 1x23kg.

6. Important Tips for Smooth Baggage Handling

1. Check Your Booking Confirmation: The most accurate baggage allowance for your specific flight is always listed on your e-ticket or booking confirmation email. Don't rely solely on general policies.

2. Weigh Your Bags at Home: Use a reliable luggage scale to ensure you are within limits before heading to the airport. This avoids last-minute repacking or expensive fees.

3. Pre-Pay Extra Baggage Online: If you know you'll exceed your allowance, buying extra baggage online via the Saudia website or app is significantly cheaper than paying at the airport.

4. Pack Smart: Distribute weight evenly across bags. Ensure bags are securely closed and clearly labeled with your name and contact details. Consider using locks approved by TSA (for flights to/from the US) or similar authorities.

5. Arrive Early: Allow ample time at the airport for baggage check-in, especially if you have extra baggage to pay for or special items to declare.

6. Keep Valuables & Essentials in Carry-On: Never pack medications, important documents, jewelry, electronics, or change of clothes in checked baggage.

7. Know the Limits: Be aware of both the number of pieces and the weight per piece limits. Exceeding either triggers fees.

8. Special Items: Declare sports equipment or musical instruments at check-in and ensure they are properly packed. Check specific requirements and fees online beforehand.

9. Saudia App: The app is a convenient way to manage your booking, add baggage, and check your allowance.

10. Al Fursan Status: If you are a member, ensure your status is correctly reflected in your booking to receive your enhanced baggage benefits.

7. Baggage Tracing and Claims

• Delayed/Damaged Baggage: If your baggage is delayed, damaged, or lost, report it immediately at the Saudia baggage service desk at the airport of arrival. You will be given a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) number to track your baggage.

• Tracking: Saudia provides a 24-hour baggage tracing service. You can track your baggage online using the PIR number on the Saudia website.

• Claims: Follow the instructions provided by the baggage service desk regarding compensation for delayed or damaged baggage. Keep all receipts for essential purchases made due to delayed baggage.

Conclusion

Saudia Airlines' baggage policy is designed to be fair and structured, but it requires careful attention to the details specific to your flight. By understanding your free allowance based on cabin class, route, and frequent flyer status, accurately weighing your bags, pre-paying for any extras online, and packing smartly, you can avoid unnecessary fees and ensure your luggage travels smoothly with you. Always refer to your booking confirmation for the definitive allowance and utilize Saudia's online tools for managing baggage. Safe travels!