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CA · Asia-Pacific

Air China Carry-On Size

Complete carry-on and personal item dimensions for Air China, including weight limits, enforcement level, and packing tips.

Strict enforcement

Carry-on bag

Dimensions (cm) 55 × 40 × 20 cm
Dimensions (inches) 21.7 × 15.7 × 7.9 in
Linear total 115 cm / 45.3 in
Weight limit 5 kg / 11.0 lb

Personal item

Dimensions (cm) 40 × 30 × 10 cm
Dimensions (inches) 15.7 × 11.8 × 3.9 in
Weight limit Not enforced

Important notes for Air China passengers

Economy: one carry-on (5 kg) plus one small personal item. Business and First: two items (8 kg each). China's flag carrier has one of the strictest carry-on weight limits in the world — 5 kg for Economy. Bags are weighed at check-in and boarding gates at Chinese airports. Total dimensions must not exceed 115 cm.

View Air China's official baggage policy

Packing tips for Air China

Air China has strict enforcement of carry-on limits. Measure and weigh your bag before leaving home. A luggage scale and a tape measure are worth the small investment. Consider packing with compression packing cubes to minimize volume, and wear your heaviest clothing items on the plane rather than packing them. See our one-bag packing list for strategies to stay within strict size limits.

For clothing that packs small and performs well in transit, see our travel fabrics guide and our merino t-shirt roundup — merino compresses better than cotton and handles multi-day wear between washes.

FAQ

What is the carry-on size limit for Air China?

Air China allows carry-on bags up to 55 × 40 × 20 cm (21.7 × 15.7 × 7.9 inches), including handles and wheels. The maximum weight is 5 kg (11.0 lb).

What is the personal item size for Air China?

Air China allows a personal item up to 40 × 30 × 10 cm (15.7 × 11.8 × 3.9 inches). This must fit under the seat in front of you.

Does Air China weigh carry-on bags?

Yes. Air China has strict enforcement and regularly weighs and measures carry-on bags at the gate or during boarding. Pack within the stated limits to avoid fees.

Can I bring a carry-on and a personal item on Air China?

Air China generally allows one carry-on bag for the overhead bin and one personal item for under the seat. Economy: one carry-on (5 kg) plus one small personal item. Business and First: two items (8 kg each). China's flag carrier has one of the strictest carry-on weight limits in the world — 5 kg for Economy. Bags are weighed at check-in and boarding gates at Chinese airports. Total dimensions must not exceed 115 cm.

Flying multiple airlines?

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