MAS Streamlines Cabin Baggage Allowance

KUALA LUMPUR, May 15 (Bernama) -- Malaysia Airlines (MAS) has streamlined its cabin baggage rules for all its domestic and international flights, effective May 15, in preparation for its entry into 'oneworld', a global airline alliance. Under the new guidelines, guests travelling in Economy Class will now be allowed one piece cabin baggage up to a maximum 7kg instead of 5kg. Guests in First and Business Class have an allowance of two pieces of cabin baggage with a maximum weight of 7kg each. Each cabin bag must not exceed 56cm in height, 36cm in length and 23cm in width, the Malaysian national carrier said in a statement Monday. Apart from the streamlined cabin baggage allowance, each guest can bring onboard either a notebook/laptop or briefcase or a binocular bag. In addition, guests can also bring a small handbag and a walking stick. MAS said those travelling with infants below 24 months old may also bring one bag containing baby food and nappies weighing up to 5kg, a carry cot and a fully collapsible baby stroller. "All cabin baggage must conform to local laws and security measures applied at the respective airports. Malaysia Airlines' regular rates will be applied to cabin baggage in excess of these new allowances," the statement said. MAS said it was on schedule to join 'oneworld' by the end of this year. As it prepares for its alliance membership, the airline has developed bilateral links on code-shares with 'oneworld' partners, the latest being Cathay Pacific and Royal Jordanian. When it becomes part of 'oneworld', MAS will gain access to the alliance's global network. It will expand oneworld's global coverage to almost 950 destinations in 150 countries, served by a combined fleet of more than 2,600 aircraft operating some 10,000 flights a day and carrying 358 million passengers a year. -- BERNAMA