Airlines are increasingly enforcing stricter carry-on baggage rules, a trend welcomed by aviation safety researchers due to concerns over flight delays and safety. A former pilot, now an aviation safety researcher, noted that too much cabin baggage can significantly delay departures and presents a real safety risk.
Virgin Australia, for example, updated its carry-on baggage policy for domestic flights on February 2, 2026. Economy passengers are now restricted to one standard-sized cabin bag weighing up to 8kg for overhead lockers, in addition to a small personal item that fits under a seat.
International carriers are also adjusting their policies. About a year ago, Air Canada limited basic fare passengers to one personal item for flights across North and Central America. However, carry-on rules can vary significantly between airlines, even for the same type of aircraft and route, as individual airlines can seek approval for their own passenger and cabin baggage weights from regulators.
The weight of passengers and baggage is crucial for flight safety, as each aircraft has a maximum take-off weight that cannot be exceeded. While checked baggage is weighed, carry-on bags contribute to the overall weight calculation. The International Air Transport Association forecasts ancillary revenue, including fees for extra baggage, to reach US$144 billion this year.