When flying with Flydubai Airlines, understanding the baggage rules and policies is crucial to ensure a smooth travel experience. Flydubai, a low-cost carrier based in Dubai, offers a straightforward baggage allowance system, but it operates under specific rules that travelers must follow. This guide will break down Flydubai’s baggage policies, including cabin baggage, checked baggage, and additional charges.

1. Cabin Baggage Allowance (Hand Luggage)

Flydubai allows passengers to bring cabin baggage on board, but there are size and weight restrictions depending on the class of service and ticket type.

Economy Class:

• Weight Limit: Passengers are allowed to bring one piece of cabin baggage weighing up to 7 kg (15 lbs).
• Dimensions: The maximum dimensions for cabin baggage are 55 x 38 x 20 cm (21.7 x 15 x 7.9 inches).
• Additional Items: In addition to the main piece of cabin baggage, passengers can bring one personal item, such as a small backpack, laptop bag, or handbag. The total weight of both items should not exceed the cabin baggage weight limit of 7 kg.

Business Class:

• Weight Limit: Business class passengers are allowed two pieces of cabin baggage, each weighing up to 7 kg (15 lbs).
• Dimensions: Each bag should not exceed the size of 55 x 38 x 20 cm (21.7 x 15 x 7.9 inches).
• Additional Items: Similar to Economy Class, one personal item (such as a handbag or laptop bag) is permitted for Business Class passengers.

2. Checked Baggage Allowance

Flydubai’s checked baggage allowance depends on the type of ticket you purchase, with the carrier offering different fare options (Lite, Value, and Flex) that come with varying baggage limits.

Lite Fare:

• Checked Baggage: Passengers flying with the Lite fare do not have any included checked baggage. If you need checked baggage, you must purchase it as an add-on during booking or after your reservation.
• Additional Charges: Baggage can be added in increments, such as 20 kg, 30 kg, or 40 kg of checked luggage. Pricing varies depending on when you purchase it and the destination.

Value Fare:

• Checked Baggage: This fare includes 20 kg of checked baggage allowance.
• Additional Charges: If you require more than 20 kg, additional baggage can be purchased in increments of 5 kg, up to a maximum of 40 kg.

Flex Fare:

• Checked Baggage: Passengers who book the Flex fare enjoy a 30 kg checked baggage allowance.
• Additional Charges: As with other fares, you can buy extra baggage allowance in increments of 5 kg, with a maximum weight of 40 kg.

Maximum Weight per Bag:

Each checked bag should not exceed 32 kg (70 lbs) in weight. If your bag exceeds this weight, it will be subject to additional fees or may need to be split into separate bags.

3. Excess Baggage and Fees

If your checked baggage exceeds the weight or number of bags included in your allowance, Flydubai will charge you for excess baggage. The fees vary depending on the route and the total weight of the extra luggage.

• Excess Baggage Charges: Fees are typically calculated based on the additional weight or number of pieces you are carrying. It’s always cheaper to pre-purchase extra baggage online when booking your ticket.
• Overweight Baggage: If a bag exceeds the 32 kg weight limit, it may not be accepted, and you may need to repack or pay for special handling.

4. Special Baggage and Items

Flydubai also offers provisions for passengers traveling with special items such as sports equipment, musical instruments, and medical necessities.

Sports Equipment:

Flydubai allows you to check in sports equipment such as skis, snowboards, bicycles, and golf clubs. The fee for carrying sports equipment varies, and it's essential to notify the airline in advance when traveling with such items.

• Size Restrictions: Most sports equipment should not exceed 32 kg in weight, and it must be packed appropriately.
• Fees: Expect to pay an additional fee depending on the size and type of equipment.

Musical Instruments:

You can bring musical instruments like guitars and violins on board as part of your cabin baggage if they meet the size and weight restrictions, or they can be checked in if they exceed the cabin baggage limit.

• Instrument Fees: Depending on size and weight, musical instruments may incur additional charges. Passengers should check with Flydubai for more specific fees.

Medical Equipment:

Medical equipment such as wheelchairs and oxygen tanks are allowed on Flydubai flights. Wheelchairs are generally accepted free of charge, but it’s advised to inform the airline at the time of booking to ensure appropriate arrangements are made.

5. Prohibited and Restricted Items

As with all airlines, Flydubai has a list of prohibited and restricted items that cannot be carried in either checked or cabin baggage. These typically include:

• Flammable materials (such as aerosols and lighter fluid)
• Sharp objects (unless packed properly in checked baggage)
• Liquids exceeding 100 ml in cabin baggage
• Dangerous or hazardous materials
• Explosives or firearms (unless permitted by law and with prior notice)

Make sure to check Flydubai's guidelines for a complete list of prohibited items before packing.

6. Baggage Handling and Tracking

Flydubai offers baggage tracking services for your convenience. If your baggage is delayed or lost, you can file a report at the airport, and Flydubai will assist you in locating your items. They also offer compensation for delayed baggage, subject to certain conditions.

7. Baggage Allowance Summary

Here’s a quick breakdown of Flydubai's baggage policy:

Conclusion

Flydubai offers a straightforward baggage policy that fits its low-cost airline model. If you’re traveling light or only need the basics, their cabin baggage allowance and flexible baggage options are a good deal. However, if you plan to check in luggage, you’ll need to be mindful of additional charges for extra baggage and weigh your options carefully to avoid unexpected fees.

Always double-check the baggage rules when booking, especially if you're carrying special items or have specific requirements, as this will help you avoid surprises at the airport.