KQ cuts intra-Africa passenger baggage allowance to one
What you need to know:
- The airline previously allowed users flying in Economy Class from one African country to another two bags of a maximum weight of 23 kilogrammes.
- Flyers will now be allowed to have only one bag, with charges applicable for extra bags.
- Baggage charges are a popular revenue stream for airlines.
Kenya Airways #ticker:KQ has reduced baggage allowance on its intra-Africa routes to one bag, making it more expensive to fly with additional baggage.
The airline previously allowed users flying in Economy Class from one African country to another two bags of a maximum weight of 23 kilogrammes.
Flyers will now be allowed to have only one bag, with charges applicable for extra bags.
Baggage charges are a popular revenue stream for airlines.
“Kenya Airways will implement a new baggage policy that will entitle its guests to 20 per cent discount on any extra bag purchases up to 24 hours to departure. In addition to reduced extra baggage, fees within intra-Africa flights, guests will be entitled to one free bag in the Economy Class cabin at a maximum weight of 23 kilogrammes per passenger,” read a statement by Kenya Airways.
The carrier however said the intra-Africa one bag allowance will not apply to passengers travelling to and from other continents, while Business Class passengers will maintain their allowance of two free bags at 32 kilogrammes maximum weight per bag. Ancillary fees — those added onto the actual cost of a ticket — have become a way for carriers to make additional income while keeping the cost of tickets low.
The carriers charge Economy Class passengers fees for baggage, legroom and seat selection.
Low cost cross European carriers including EasyJet and RyanAir have been leveraging on the no frills model for customers to boost revenue.
“The new baggage policy is part of Kenya Airways’ strategy to provide simplified and discounted competitive prices for passengers who book their extra baggage, any time before 24 hours to departure while enhancing customer service for our guests,” said Kenya Airways Group Managing Director and CEO Sebastian Mikosz.
