About Japan Airlines
Japan Airlines (JAL) is the flag carrier of Japan and the second largest airline in Japan. A member of the Oneworld alliance, known for its exceptional service and on-time performance. Headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. The airline is a member of Oneworld.
Carry-on Baggage
Carry-on Bag
Personal Item
Checked Baggage Allowance
| Class | First Bag | Second Bag | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy | Free | Included (2 pieces) | 51 pounds (23 kg) | 80 linear inches (203 cm) |
| Premium Economy | Free | Free | 51 pounds (23 kg) | 80 linear inches (203 cm) |
| Business/First Class | Free | Free | 70 pounds (32 kg) | 80 linear inches (203 cm) |
Additional Bags & Notes
2 bags of 23kg each included on international
💡 Fees and allowances may vary by route, fare type, and booking date. Always verify on the official Japan Airlines baggage page before traveling.
Example Baggage Scenarios
Tokyo → Los Angeles (Economy)
Carry-on: 22 x 16 x 10 inches (55 x 40 x 25 cm), 10 kg max
Checked bag: 1 piece 51 pounds (23 kg) — Included
2nd bag: Included (2 pieces)
Tip: Prepay online to lower baggage costs before you arrive at the airport
Tokyo → London (Business Class)
Carry-on: 22 x 16 x 10 inches (55 x 40 x 25 cm), 10 kg 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 | JPY 10,000-25,000 per piece (varies by route) | Varies by route and booking time |
| Prepaid Discount | Save up to 20% when prepaying online | Book online before departure to save |
| Overweight (23-32kg) | JPY 10,000-20,000 for bags 23-32kg | 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 Japan Airlines'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 JAL Mileage Bank: Elite members often get free checked bags and priority boarding.
Special Items & Equipment
Japan Airlines 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, surf equipment with fees
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: Stroller and baby items free
Strollers and pushchairs gate-checked free.
Compact strollers may be allowed in overhead bin
JAL Mileage Bank: Status-based extra allowance
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