Do you have to pay twice for baggage on a connecting flight with different airlines?

Do You Have to Pay Twice for Baggage on a Connecting Flight with Different Airlines?

When booking a connecting flight with different airlines, it’s crucial to be aware of potential additional baggage fees. Unlike codeshare flights, where multiple airlines share a single flight number and baggage allowance, connecting flights with different airlines may not have such agreements.

Implications of Non-Partnered Airlines

If the airlines involved in your connecting flight are not partnered, you will likely need to collect your luggage at the layover airport. This means that you will be responsible for paying the second airline’s baggage fees before re-checking your luggage.

Fee Structure

The baggage fee structure for non-partnered airlines can vary widely. Some airlines charge a flat fee, while others calculate the cost based on the weight, size, or destination of your luggage. It’s essential to check the baggage policies of each airline involved in your itinerary.

Avoiding Double Fees

To avoid paying double baggage fees, consider the following strategies:

• Book partnered airlines: Look for connecting flights where the airlines have a codeshare agreement, which typically includes baggage allowance and check-through.
• Check baggage through to final destination: Ask the first airline if they can check your luggage all the way to your final destination, even if you need to claim it at the layover airport. This may be possible if there is an interline agreement between the airlines.
• Negotiate with the airlines: If you’re faced with double baggage fees, try contacting each airline and negotiating a reduced or waived fee.

Conclusion

While connecting flights with different airlines can be convenient, it’s important to be aware of potential baggage fees. By understanding the implications of non-partnered airlines and researching the baggage policies of each carrier, you can avoid paying double fees and ensure a seamless travel experience.