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Airlines have agreed an ‘optimum size’ guideline for carry-on bags designed to make the best use of cabin storage space.
A size of 55 x 35 x 20 cm (or 21.5 x 13.5 x 7.5 inches) means that “theoretically” everyone should have a chance to store their carry-on bags on board aircraft of 120 seats or larger, according to Iata.
An ‘Iata Cabin OK’ logo to signify to airline staff that a bag meets the agreed size guidelines has been developed.
A number of major international airlines will soon be introducing the guidelines into their operations.
Bags carrying the identifying label are expected start to become available to buy later this year.
Recognition of the logo is expected to grow with time as more airlines join the initiative.
Iata is working with baggage tracking solutions provider Okoban to manage the approval process of luggage manufacturers.
Each bag meeting the dimensions of the specifications will carry a special joint label featuring Iata and Okoban as well as a unique identification code that signals to airline staff that the bag complies with the optimum size guidelines.
Several major baggage manufacturers have developed products in line with the optimum size guidelines.
Iata senior vice president for airport, passenger, cargo and security, Tom Windmuller, said: “The development of an agreed optimal cabin bag size will bring common sense and order to the problem of differing sizes for carry-on bags.
“We know the current situation can be frustrating for passengers. This work will help to iron out inconsistencies and lead to an improved passenger experience.”