Smaller carry-ons for overhead bins may be on the horizon

Smaller carry on bags could be in your future if a plan from an airline trade association is adopted by carriers.

The International Air Transport Association   announced a “size guideline” for carry-on bags has been agreed that will make the best use of cabin storage space, according to a release.

A size of 21.5 x 13.5 x 7.5 inches) could mean everyone should have a chance to store their carry-on bags on board aircraft of 120 seats or larger, the release stated. The current size listed on airline websites is typically 22 x 14 x 9 inches.

The Quartz business website said that size would be nearly 40 percent percent smaller than current bags. Converting those bags to checked luggage can add $25 to the per person cost of a one-way flight.

The new bags would also contain an “IATA Cabin OK” logo to signify to airline staff that a bag meets the agreed size guidelines has been developed. A number of major international airlines have signaled their interest to join the initiative and will soon be introducing the guidelines into their operations, the IATA claimed.

“The development of an agreed optimal cabin bag size will bring common sense and order to the problem of differing sizes for carry-on bags. We know the current situation can be frustrating for passengers. This work will help to iron out inconsistencies and lead to an improved passenger experience,” said Tom Windmuller, IATA’s senior vice president for Airport, Passenger, Cargo and Security.

Several major baggage manufacturers have developed products in line with the optimum size guidelines, and it is expected bags carrying the identifying label will start to reach retail shops later this year, the ITA predicted.

Some ultra-low fare carriers, such as Frontier, are now charging for carry-on luggage stored in overhead bins. Southwest does not charge for the first two checked bags.

The smaller bags could trigger a backlash among passengers, already angered by bag fees that have helped airlines remain profitable. The recent drop in fuel prices has further fattened earnings.

At the same time, cramming carry-on bags into overhead compartments slows down loading of planes and leads to some bags being checked at no charge.