About Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, based in Abu Dhabi, with an international network across major global markets. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
Carry-on Baggage
Carry-on Bag
Personal Item
Checked Baggage Allowance
| Class | First Bag | Second Bag | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy Deal | Free | From $26-$200 per 5kg | 51 pounds (23 kg) | 62 linear inches (158 cm) |
| Economy Choice/Saver | Free | Included (2 pieces) | 51 pounds (23 kg) | 62 linear inches (158 cm) |
| Business/First Class | Free | Free | 70 pounds (32 kg) | 62 linear inches (158 cm) |
Additional Bags & Notes
1 bag included, extra bags from $26-$200 depending on route
💡 Fees and allowances may vary by route, fare type, and booking date. Always verify on the official Etihad Airways baggage page before traveling.
Example Baggage Scenarios
Abu Dhabi → London (Economy)
Carry-on: 22 x 15 x 8 inches (56 x 38 x 20 cm), 7-12 kg by cabin max
Checked bag: 1 piece 51 pounds (23 kg) — Included
2nd bag: From $26-$200 per 5kg
Tip: Prepay online to lower baggage costs before you arrive at the airport
Abu Dhabi → Sydney (Business Class)
Carry-on: 22 x 15 x 8 inches (56 x 38 x 20 cm), 7-12 kg by cabin max + personal item
Checked bags: 2 pieces 51 pounds (23 kg) — Included free
Priority: Business class bags tagged priority for faster delivery
Lounge: Complimentary lounge access with extra bag storage
⚠️ These are typical examples. Actual fees depend on fare type, route, booking date, and frequent flyer status.
Excess Baggage Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Bag / Per Kg | AED 60-150 per kg (varies by route) | Varies by route and booking time |
| Prepaid Discount | Save up to 65% when prepaying online | Book online before departure to save |
| Overweight (23-32kg) | AED 200-800 for bags over weight limit | Per bag exceeding standard weight |
💰 Pro tip: Always prepay for extra baggage online. Airport fees can be 20-40% higher.
Tips to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees
- Weigh at home: Use a luggage scale before leaving. Most overweight fees start at $50-100 per bag.
- Prepay online: Book extra baggage through Etihad Airways's website to save 10-20% vs airport prices.
- Wear heavy items: Boots, coats, and heavy clothing don't count toward luggage weight.
- Use compression bags: Vacuum bags reduce clothing volume by up to 75%.
- Check credit card perks: Premium cards often include free checked bags on select airlines.
- Join Etihad Guest: Elite members often get free checked bags and priority boarding.
Special Items & Equipment
Etihad Airways accepts various special items with specific conditions. Advance booking is required for most special items. Contact the airline at least 48-72 hours before departure.
Important: All special items require advance reservation. Airport acceptance is not guaranteed without pre-booking. Fees shown are estimates — actual prices vary by route, season, and availability.
Sports equipment: Golf, ski, dive equipment accepted
Pre-booking required 48-72h before departure.
Must be properly packed in protective bag/case
Musical instruments: Special handling available
Small instruments cabin-allowed if space permits.
Cellos/large instruments may require seat purchase
Infant baggage: 10kg allowance plus stroller/car seat
Strollers and pushchairs gate-checked free.
Compact strollers may be allowed in overhead bin
Save up to 65% when booking extra baggage online
Contact airline for specific requirements.
Pre-booking recommended
Musical Instruments & Sports Equipment — Quick Reference
Musical Instruments
- Cabin: Guitars, violins if overhead space permits
- Extra seat: Cellos, French horns (€100-300)
- Checked: Hard case mandatory, max 32kg
- Booking: Contact airline 72h before flight
Sports Equipment
- Golf: €30-80/bag, max 15kg
- Ski/Snowboard: €40-100/set, max 23kg
- Bicycle: €60-150, must be boxed
- Surfboard: €75-200, depends on length
Hub Airports
Compare Etihad Airways With Broader Baggage Charts
Use these comparison guides to benchmark this airline against broader cabin, personal item, and checked baggage patterns before you book.