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

Planning to fly with Ethiopian Airlines? Understanding the Ethiopian Airlines Baggage Policy can save you time, stress, and unexpected fees at the airport. Whether you're flying domestically within Africa or internationally to the U.S., Europe, or Asia, knowing the carry-on, checked baggage, and excess baggage rules is essential.

Overview of Ethiopian Airlines Baggage Policy

Ethiopian Airlines operates one of Africa’s largest international networks. It uses two baggage allowance systems based on your destination:

Piece Concept for international flights (e.g., to/from the U.S., Europe, Asia)

Weight Concept for domestic routes within Ethiopia

Ethiopian Airlines Cabin Baggage Allowance (Carry-On)

All passengers are allowed to bring carry-on baggage into the cabin, with allowances based on the class of service.

Economy Class:
1 piece of hand luggage

Max weight: 7 kg (15 lbs)

Max dimensions: 23 cm x 40 cm x 55 cm

Cloud Nine (Business Class):
2 pieces of hand luggage

Combined max weight: 14 kg (30 lbs)

Same size restrictions apply per bag

Additional personal items (1 small bag, handbag, laptop, or briefcase) are also permitted.

Important: If your cabin bag exceeds the weight or size limit, it may be checked in, and excess baggage charges might apply.

Ethiopian Airlines Checked Baggage Allowance

Your free checked baggage allowance depends on your travel class and route. Ethiopian Airlines follows:

Piece Concept (Most international routes)
Economy Class:
2 checked bags

Max weight per bag: 23 kg (50 lbs)

Max dimensions per bag: 158 cm (62 inches) (L + W + H)

Cloud Nine (Business Class):
2 checked bags

Max weight per bag: 32 kg (70 lbs)

Weight Concept (Domestic Flights in Ethiopia)
Economy: 20 kg total

Business: 30 kg total

Infant and Child Baggage Allowance

Flying with kids? Ethiopian Airlines offers generous baggage policies for infants and children:

Infants (under 2 years):
1 checked bag up to 10 kg (Weight Concept) or 1 piece up to 23 kg (Piece Concept)

1 collapsible stroller or baby car seat (free of charge)

Children with a seat:
Receive the same baggage allowance as adults in their class

Excess Baggage Fees on Ethiopian Airlines

Exceeding your baggage limit? Expect to pay additional charges. Excess baggage fees depend on:

Route (e.g., Africa to Europe, U.S., Asia, etc.)

Whether you exceed by weight, number of pieces, or size

Whether the fee is paid online or at the airport

Examples:
Extra piece (up to 23 kg): $100–$200

Overweight fee (23–32 kg): $50–$100

Oversized luggage (over 158 cm): Additional charges apply

Special Baggage Items: Sports and Musical Equipment

Ethiopian Airlines allows you to check in special baggage such as sports gear and musical instruments.

Allowed Items:
Bicycles

Golf clubs

Skis/snowboards

Musical instruments (violin, cello, etc.)

Rules:

May be part of your free checked allowance if within weight/size limits

Excess fees apply if oversized or overweight

Larger instruments may need a separate seat

Always notify the airline at least 48 hours in advance if traveling with oversized or fragile items.

Medical Equipment and Mobility Devices

Passengers traveling with wheelchairs, mobility aids, or medical devices are allowed to carry them free of charge. Ethiopian Airlines complies with international disability regulations.

Items must be properly packed and declared during booking

Contact customer service in advance for support and arrangements

Delayed, Lost, or Damaged Baggage

In case of baggage issues:

Report immediately at the airport’s Lost & Found desk

Fill out a Property Irregularity Report (PIR)

Track your bag via the WorldTracer system

File compensation claims if your baggage is damaged or permanently lost

ShebaMiles Baggage Benefits (Frequent Flyers)

ShebaMiles members get additional baggage perks based on their tier:

  Membership Tier
Extra Baggage Allowance
Silver
+10 kg or 1 extra piece
Gold
+15 kg or 1 extra piece
Platinum
+20 kg or 1 extra piece
Tips for a Smooth Baggage Experience

To avoid surprises or extra costs:

Use a digital scale to weigh bags at home

Label your luggage with your contact details

Book extra baggage online in advance

Arrive early for oversized or special baggage check-inCarry valuables in your hand luggage.

Conclusion

Ethiopian Airlines baggage policy is transparent, customer-friendly, and aligned with international standards. Whether you’re flying Economy or Cloud Nine, traveling with children, or carrying musical equipment, you’ll find flexibility in their rules.