South African Airways Baggage

Carry-On Allowance: 1 Bag

All carry-on luggage must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. In addition to a personal item (overcoat, laptop, purse) passengers are allowed 1 carry-on bag that adheres to the following requirements:

  • Maximum Dimensions of Carry-on Luggage: 45 linear in/115 cm (length + width + height)
  • Maximum Weight of Carry-on Luggage: 18 lb/8 kg

REMINDER: Bulkhead seats do not have underseat storage during take-off and landing.
Read Bulkheads Explained

Checked Baggage Allowance

Passengers traveling to to/from Canada and the U.S.:

  • Baggage Allowance: 2 pieces
  • Maximum Dimensions: 62 linear inches/157 cm (length + width + height)
  • Maximum Weight for Economy Class passengers: 50 lb/23 kg
  • Maximum Weight for First and Business Class passengers: 70 lb/32 kg
  • *Star Alliance Gold and Voyager members are allowed additional baggage.

Passengers traveling in most other destinations:

  • Maximum Weight for Economy Class Passengers: 44 lb/20 kg total
  • Maximum Weight for Business Class Passengers: 66 lb/30 kg total
  • Maximum Weight for First Class Passengers: 88 lb/40 kg total
  • *Star Alliance Gold and Voyager members are allowed additional baggage.

IMPORTANT NOTE: There are some exceptions to the above information, depending on your destination and originating city. Be sure to check the South African Airways website or contact their Reservations desk for more details or if you have questions.

Excess, Overweight, Oversize Baggage Fees

If you have more bags than the permitted allowance or your bags exceed the weight or linear restrictions, you will be charged additional fees. Contact South African Airways directly for more information as this will vary by destination and departing airport.

Sports Equipment

Some sports equipment, because of size, fragility, or other handling requirements will be charged an excess fee even if the equipment replaces one of your allowed baggage pieces. Contact South African Airways directly for more information.

CPAP Devices:

The allowance of CPAP’s is accepted. However, the machines must be battery powered for the duration of the flight.