Coming soon to an overhead bin near you..... theoretically...

IATA (the International Air Transport Association) just launched a new initiative to streamline the accommodation of carry-on bags on aircraft.

Differing carry-on bag sizes and airline policies have made boarding a tedious process, especially since carriers began charging for the first checked bag in 2008.

IATA has been working with airline members of IATA and aircraft manufacturers to determine an optimum size guideline.

The participants have agreed that a size of 21.5 x 13.5 x 7.5 inches would ensure—theoretically—that everyone would have a chance to store their carry-on bags on board aircraft of 120 seats or larger.

That is slightly smaller than the 22 x 14 x by 9 inches that Delta, American and United currently allow and IATA has developed a "Cabin OK" logo to signify that a bag meets size guidelines.

A number of major international airlines have signaled their interest to join the initiative and will soon introduce the guidelines into their operations.

Comments

OUBobcat - 6/21/2015 6:37 PM That stinks....any idea on how soon this could take effect. I got a trip planned to Coz in December and gotta get a set of luggage. GoAtlantis - 6/22/2015 10:41 PM There is no telling when this will catch on with all the airlines. The new guidelines are the same as most foreign airlines so when you buy your luggage, look for a carry-on that meets the new size requirements and weighs between 4-7lbs. Some airlines are already weighing carry-ons. The airlines brought this mess on themselves by charging for baggage but they are a necessary evil to get to the great dive destinations.