Sri Lankan Airlines Baggage Allowances Explained
Booking your airline tickets early not only secures the best deals but also helps you avoid last-minute price hikes. Finding cheap air ticketing service provider can save you a lot on your trip, and knowing each airline’s baggage policies beforehand makes it much easier to choose the best ticket for your needs.
Traveling with Sri Lankan Airlines involves understanding a set of baggage rules and allowances. Knowing these rules can make your journey smoother, ensuring you know what you can and cannot bring on board—the following is an easy-to-follow guide on baggage policies, restricted items, and specific guidelines for certain international flights.
Checked Baggage Allowance
The checked baggage allowance for each passenger depends on the travel class and the route. Generally, Sri Lankan Airlines allows:
- Economy Class: One checked bag weighing up to 30 kg.
- Business Class: One or two bags with a combined weight limit of up to 40 kg.
Bags that exceed the weight limit may incur additional charges. It’s best to weigh your bag before heading to the airport to avoid unexpected fees.
Carry-On Baggage Allowance
For carry-on or cabin baggage, each passenger is typically allowed to:
- Economy Class: One carry-on bag not exceeding 7 kg.
- Business Class: Two carry-on bags, with each bag weighing no more than 7 kg.
Carry-on bags must fit within the size limits set by the airline. Bags too large or heavy will need to be checked in, possibly with an extra fee.
Special Baggage Rules and Exceptions
Sri Lankan Airlines has specific rules for items that require special handling or are considered dangerous goods. Here’s a breakdown:
Liquids, Aerosols, and Gels (LAGs)
For safety, all liquids, aerosols, and gels in carry-on baggage must follow these rules:
- Each item must be in a container holding 100 ml or less.
- Containers should fit within a single, transparent plastic bag no larger than 1 liter.
Only one plastic bag per passenger is allowed. Exemptions are made for medication, baby formula, and dietary items, but you may need to show proof, especially if you’re traveling internationally.
Duty-Free Liquids
You can bring duty-free liquids bought at the airport or on the plane if they’re in a Security Tamper-Evident Bag (STEB) provided by the store. Be sure to keep your receipt in the bag and don’t open it until after you’ve cleared security.
Items Not Allowed in Checked or Carry-On Baggage
Sri Lankan Airlines follows strict safety regulations, so certain items are entirely prohibited. These include:
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- Explosives: Fireworks, flares, and other explosives are strictly prohibited.
- Flammable liquids and gases: Items such as gasoline, lighter fluid, and propane cannot be brought on board.
- Toxic and infectious substances: Chemicals, biological samples, and poisons are banned.
Items with Limited Allowance
There are items that passengers can bring but with restrictions. Here are some examples:
Personal Medical Devices
Passengers can carry certain medical devices like gas cylinders for prosthetic limbs, or small oxygen tanks, provided they are approved by the airline. Be sure to contact the airline in advance if you plan to travel with these items.
Portable Electronic Devices and Lithium Batteries
Lithium batteries are common in many personal devices, like laptops, cameras, and phones. Here are some rules to remember:
- Portable electronic devices (PEDs) with lithium-ion batteries up to 100 watt-hours are allowed in both checked and carry-on baggage.
- Spare batteries (including power banks) must be carried in your carry-on only.
- Devices or batteries with watt-hours between 100 and 160 may require airline approval, and only two spare batteries of this type are allowed.
Keep in mind that each person is limited to 15 PEDs. All devices must be turned off if placed in checked baggage.
Safety Matches and Lighters
Passengers are allowed to carry a small packet of safety matches or a cigarette lighter on their person (not in their baggage). However, you cannot bring lighter refills or “strike anywhere” matches.
Sporting Equipment and Special Items
For those traveling with sporting equipment or other special items, like diving lamps, consult Sri Lankan Airlines’ specific guidelines. Some items may be allowed with restrictions, and others may require pre-approval.
Mobility Aids and Wheelchairs
Sri Lankan Airlines accommodates passengers with mobility aids, but rules depend on the type of battery:
- Non-spillable batteries: Allowed in checked and carry-on baggage.
- Spillable or lithium batteries: Must meet specific guidelines, and some may require the battery to be removed and carried separately.
Passengers should notify the airline in advance if they plan to travel with a wheelchair or other mobility device.
Guidelines for Specific Destinations
Different countries have varying security requirements. Here’s a quick overview of popular destinations:
Traveling to the UK
Electronic devices larger than 16.0 cm x 9.3 cm x 1.5 cm, like large tablets or laptops, are not allowed in the cabin on flights to the UK from certain countries (Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Tunisia). Travelers are encouraged to check with the airline for updates on these restrictions.
Traveling to the USA
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security mandates that all electronic devices larger than a smartphone must be placed in checked baggage on select flights to the U.S. from specific airports in the Middle East and North Africa. Exceptions include medical devices and power banks.
Traveling to Australia
Australia has strict LAG restrictions. Only liquids, aerosols, and gels in containers of 100 ml or less are allowed in carry-on baggage. Any LAG items over this limit will be confiscated.
Tips for a Hassle-Free Journey
To make your travel experience as smooth as possible, here are some additional tips:
- Check your baggage allowance: Review your ticket to know your baggage limit and avoid extra fees.
- Weigh your bags in advance: Make sure your checked and carry-on bags are within the weight limits.
- Review restricted items: If you’re unsure whether an item is allowed, contact Sri Lankan Airlines or check their website.
- Pack smart: Place valuables and essential items like medications and documents in your carry-on, in case your checked luggage is delayed.
Traveling can be stressful, but understanding the baggage policies on Sri Lankan Airlines can make your trip easier. Being informed about what you can bring helps avoid delays and ensures a smoother experience from start to finish. In addition to Air Ticketing avail the worldwide parcel services of Teeparam and send parcel to Sri Lanka at a very competitive rates. And if you are looking for the cheapest way to send a parcel, Teeparam is the right choice.