Passengers travelling in all classes with Qatar Airways will from September 1 have a greater weight allowance for checked luggage.
The economy allowance will increase from 23kg to 30kg, business from 30kg to 40kg, and first from 40kg to 50kg.
The number of checked bags remains the same and is dependent on the type of ticket purchased. These increases do not apply when flying to destinations where luggage is measured per-piece instead of by weight.
Conversely, fellow Oneworld member British Airways has a one bag, 23kg allowance on most economy routes. However, long-haul business and first class customers can check up to three bags, with a maximum weight of 32kg each.
Qatar Airways CEO Akbar Al Baker said: "The number of customers we see travelling for longer periods of time, whether for business or on holiday, reflects the necessity for increased baggage allowance no matter their destination."
New excess baggage rates will be released after September 1, which are also due to increase, except when purchased at qatarairways.com, where discounted rates of up to 20 per cent will be available.
Privilege Club members will continue to enjoy excess baggage allowance in addition to the new increased allowances. Currently Burgundy members are allowed an extra 10kgs, Silver an additional 15kgs and Gold 20kgs, except on transatlantic/US services.
Qatar Airways is due to join the Oneworld alliance in October (see news, June 21).
Scott Carey
