Air China carry-on: 5 kg Economy, 8 kg Business and First

Air China’s published cabin allowance depends on travel class. The table applies to flights operated by Air China; for a codeshare, check the operating airline. The current conditions took effect on 20 April 2026, while earlier tickets retain the terms applicable when purchased.

Allowance by class

Include wheels and handles in each measurement. These are individual side limits, not permission to substitute a longer side while keeping the same total. The 8 kg allowance is per bag, not a combined 8 kg across two bags. Premium Economy does not raise the cabin weight allowance above Economy.

Personal item and packing

One additional personal item must fit under the seat ahead: for example, a handbag, laptop bag or camera bag. The reviewed conditions do not publish a separate numeric box or weight for this item. Do not interpret that absence as permission for an unlimited second bag.

Weigh the packed cabin bag, including its own weight. Compare the actual model and packed dimensions rather than assuming that a product labelled “international carry-on” fits. The checker assesses one bag at a time; for Business or First, check both bags and confirm the two-piece count yourself.

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If the bag is over the limit

Air China says bags exceeding the allowance or unable to be safely stowed must be checked. Additional screening can affect which flight carries the bag. Charges depend on your checked allowance, route and excess size, weight or quantity. There is no verified universal CNY 200 online / CNY 300 gate price in this review. We do not claim a measured frequency of weighing at any airport.

Infants and equipment

Passengers with an infant may carry food and diapers for the flight. A portable stroller folded to 55×40×20 cm may enter the cabin; a larger stroller is checked. The infant-ticket checked allowance includes one foldable stroller, cradle or infant car seat free, not three separate pieces. Confirm handover and return arrangements. An infant’s separate aircraft seat requires an approved restraint and compliance with the carrier’s seating conditions.

Security is a separate check

Domestic flights in China generally prohibit carry-on liquids, with listed exceptions for items such as small quantities of personal cosmetics and necessary medicines. Do not apply an international 100 ml/1 litre rule as general domestic permission. Check departure and transfer airport instructions.

Power banks belong in cabin baggage and cannot be used or charged during the flight; Air China’s current conditions also prohibit storing them overhead. Check the complete current battery requirements before travel.