Traveling with Aeromexico, one of the leading airlines in Latin America, involves understanding their baggage policies to ensure a smooth journey. Whether you’re flying for business, leisure, or visiting family, knowing the ins and outs of Aeromexico’s baggage rules can help avoid unexpected fees and make your travel experience more enjoyable. This comprehensive guide covers every aspect of Aeromexico’s baggage policy, from carry-on allowances to checked baggage fees, special item regulations, and tips for packing.
Carry-On Baggage Allowance
Aeromexico allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board, free of charge. Here are the details for each:
Carry-On Bag
- Dimensions: The carry-on bag must not exceed 55 cm x 40 cm x 25 cm (22 in x 16 in x 10 in), including handles and wheels.
- Weight: The maximum weight for the carry-on bag is 10 kg (22 lbs) in Economy Class and 18 kg (39 lbs) in Premier Class.
Personal Item
- Types: Personal items can include a purse, laptop bag, backpack, or a similar item.
- Dimensions: The personal item should fit under the seat in front of you and not exceed 40 cm x 30 cm x 15 cm (16 in x 12 in x 6 in).
It’s essential to ensure that your carry-on and personal items comply with these size and weight restrictions to avoid additional charges or the need to check these items at the gate.
Checked Baggage Allowance
Aeromexico’s checked baggage policy varies depending on the fare class, route, and frequent flyer status. Here’s a breakdown of the allowances:
Economy Class
- Domestic Flights within Mexico:
- No free checked baggage allowance. Passengers must purchase baggage separately.
- Flights to/from the United States, Canada, Central America, and the Caribbean:
- Basic Fare: No free checked baggage allowance.
- Classic Fare: 1 piece up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
- AM Plus Fare: 1 piece up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
- Flights to/from South America, Europe, and Asia:
- Classic Fare: 1 piece up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
- AM Plus Fare: 2 pieces, each up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
Premier Class (Business Class)
- Domestic and International Flights:
- 2 pieces, each up to 32 kg (70 lbs), regardless of the route.
Additional Allowances
- Club Premier Members: Depending on your membership level (Gold, Platinum, or Titanium), you may receive additional checked baggage allowances.
- SkyTeam Elite Members: SkyTeam Elite and Elite Plus members are entitled to additional baggage benefits.
Excess Baggage Fees
If your baggage exceeds the allowed weight, size, or number of pieces, additional fees will apply. Here are the general guidelines:
- Overweight Baggage:
- Bags weighing between 23 kg (50 lbs) and 32 kg (70 lbs) incur an overweight fee.
- Bags weighing more than 32 kg (70 lbs) are not accepted as checked baggage and must be shipped as cargo.
- Oversized Baggage:
- Baggage exceeding 158 cm (62 in) in total dimensions (length + width + height) incurs an oversized fee.
- Extra Pieces:
- Additional pieces beyond the free allowance incur extra piece fees. The cost depends on the route and fare class.
Fees for excess baggage can vary, so it’s advisable to check Aeromexico’s website or contact their customer service for specific rates applicable to your itinerary.
Special Baggage Items
Aeromexico accommodates passengers traveling with special items, such as sports equipment, musical instruments, and medical devices. Here are some key points for these items:
Sports Equipment
- Bicycles: Must be packed in a bike box or case. A fee applies, and it’s counted as one piece of checked baggage.
- Golf Equipment: One golf bag with clubs, balls, and shoes is counted as one piece of checked baggage.
- Ski/Snowboard Equipment: One pair of skis or one snowboard, plus a pair of boots, is considered one piece of checked baggage.
- Fishing Equipment: One rod container, one tackle box, and one pair of boots count as one piece of checked baggage.
- Surfboards: Must be packed in a surfboard bag. Fees apply depending on size and route.
Musical Instruments
- Carry-On: Small instruments (e.g., violin, guitar) can be carried on board if they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat.
- Checked: Larger instruments must be checked and properly packed. Excess baggage fees may apply.
Medical Devices
- Mobility Devices: Wheelchairs and mobility aids are transported free of charge.
- CPAP Machines: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines can be carried on board and do not count toward the carry-on allowance.
Prohibited Items
For safety and security reasons, certain items are prohibited in both carry-on and checked baggage. These include, but are not limited to:
- Explosives, fireworks, and flammable materials.
- Compressed gases (e.g., propane, butane).
- Corrosive materials (e.g., acids, alkalis).
- Radioactive materials.
- Weapons and ammunition (without proper authorization).
It’s important to review Aeromexico’s full list of prohibited items before packing to ensure compliance with their safety regulations.
Packing Tips
To make your travel experience as smooth as possible, consider the following packing tips:
- Use Lightweight Luggage: Choose lightweight, durable luggage to maximize your baggage allowance.
- Weigh Your Bags: Use a luggage scale to weigh your bags before heading to the airport to avoid overweight fees.
- Pack Smart: Roll clothes to save space, and use packing cubes to organize your belongings.
- Label Your Bags: Attach a label with your name, address, and contact information to each bag.
- Keep Essentials in Carry-On: Pack essential items like medications, important documents, and valuables in your carry-on.
Tips for Avoiding Baggage Fees
- Check Allowances: Review your fare class and route-specific baggage allowances on Aeromexico’s website before booking.
- Pre-Purchase Baggage: If you need additional baggage, purchase it in advance online to save money compared to airport rates.
- Travel Light: If possible, pack lighter to stay within the free baggage allowance.
- Join Loyalty Programs: Enroll in Aeromexico’s Club Premier or SkyTeam’s frequent flyer programs to earn additional baggage benefits.
- Use Credit Card Perks: Some credit cards offer baggage fee waivers or reimbursements for airline baggage fees.
Checking In and Baggage Drop
Online Check-In
Aeromexico offers online check-in starting 48 hours before your flight’s departure. During online check-in, you can:
- Select or change your seat.
- Pre-purchase additional baggage.
- Print your boarding pass or download it to your mobile device.
Airport Check-In
If you prefer to check in at the airport, arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. Visit the Aeromexico check-in counters to:
- Drop off checked baggage.
- Obtain your boarding pass.
- Resolve any issues with your booking or baggage.
Baggage Drop
After checking in, proceed to the baggage drop counter if you have checked baggage. Ensure your bags are properly tagged and within the weight and size limits.
Baggage Claim
Upon arrival at your destination, proceed to the baggage claim area to retrieve your checked baggage. Look for the carousel assigned to your flight, and check the baggage tags to ensure you’re collecting the correct bags.
Lost or Delayed Baggage
If your baggage is lost or delayed, report it immediately to the Aeromexico baggage service office at the airport. Provide your baggage claim tags and a detailed description of your bags. Aeromexico will initiate a search and keep you informed about the status of your baggage. In case of delay, you may be eligible for compensation to cover essential items until your baggage is returned.
Conclusion
Understanding Aeromexico baggage policy is crucial for a hassle-free travel experience. By familiarizing yourself with carry-on and checked baggage allowances, special item regulations, and excess baggage fees, you can avoid surprises and additional costs. Follow the packing tips and consider joining loyalty programs or using credit card perks to maximize your baggage benefits. Whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, proper planning and adherence to Aeromexico’s baggage guidelines will ensure a smooth journey from start to finish.
