Virgin Airlines Reduces Carry-On Baggage Limit to One Bag per Passenger

Virgin Airlines has announced a significant change to its carry-on baggage policy, effective February 2026. Under the new guidelines, each passenger will be permitted only one carry-on bag. This decision aims to streamline operations and enhance overall efficiency.

Details of the New Baggage Policy

With this new policy, Virgin Airlines passengers can take up to two carry-on bags if they are in business class or hold special membership statuses. However, most travelers will be limited to just one carry-on item in the future. Here are the specifics:

• Business class passengers and select loyalty members can still take two bags.
• The maximum weight for these bags combined is 14 kilograms.
• All passengers are still allowed one small personal item, such as a handbag, that fits under the seat.
• This policy applies to short-haul international flights to destinations like Bali, Fiji, and New Zealand.

Expert Insights on the Changes

Chrystal Zhang, an aviation professor at RMIT University, remarked that this change could be a “cost-saving game changer” for Virgin Airlines. By limiting the number of carry-on bags, the airline may improve turnaround times between flights.

Salim Hijazeen, an associate lecturer at Swinburne, added, “Reducing the number of bags can lessen boarding and deboarding times. However, compliance among boarding teams will be crucial for success.”

Comparative Baggage Policies of Other Airlines

For context, here’s how Virgin Airlines’ new carry-on limitations compare to other carriers:

Conclusion

Virgin Airlines’ reduction of its carry-on baggage limit to one bag per passenger is set to redefine the way travelers pack. With this policy change, the airline hopes to enhance operational efficiency and serve its customers better.