Air Chathams, known for connecting remote destinations across New Zealand and the Pacific, maintains a structured and detailed baggage policy to ensure passenger safety, comfort, and clarity. Whether you’re flying on a budget-friendly Thrifty Fare or opting for the more inclusive Full Economy Fare, understanding the specifics of the Air Chathams baggage policy can help you avoid unexpected charges or inconveniences. This article explores all major aspects of the policy, from standard allowances to special baggage considerations, helping passengers pack efficiently and comply with official regulations.
Overview of Air Chathams Baggage Policy
According to Air Chathams’ official conditions, all passenger baggage must comply with the carrier’s rules and the broader IATA baggage guidelines. Baggage is categorized as either carry-on or checked, and its transport is subject to inspection and approval by the airline. Non-compliant baggage or any items deemed unacceptable may be refused carriage.
Air Chathams Cabin and Checked Baggage Allowance
The Air Chathams baggage policy is categorized based on fare types:
- Thrifty Fare:
- Includes only 1 carry-on bag (up to 7kg; max linear dimension 115cm).
- No checked baggage included; must be purchased separately for an average of $35.
- Saver Fare:
- Includes 1 checked bag weighing up to 23kg.
- Additional bags incur a fee.
- Full Economy Fare:
- Allows 2 checked bags, each up to 23kg.
- Extra baggage may be added at an additional cost.
For all fare types, one piece of carry-on baggage is allowed (maximum 7kg), and a personal item such as a purse or handbag is permitted. Carry-on items that exceed capacity or aircraft limitations may be moved to the aircraft hold.
Air Chathams Infant and Child Baggage Rules
Under the Air Chathams baggage policy, infants (aged 7 days to under 24 months) are allowed one checked item weighing up to 5kg, apart from the standard 23 kg checked baggage allowance.
Moreover, two extra items—like a stroller, car seat, or portable cot—can be checked at no charge. These must fit within operational and aircraft space limits. Children and unaccompanied minors follow adult baggage limits based on their fare class. Children aged 24 months to 12 years are eligible for the child fare for flights to international destinations and the Chatham Islands.
Air Chathams’ Weight and Size Restrictions
Each piece of checked baggage must not exceed 23kg. If a single bag exceeds this limit, an excess weight fee will be charged per kilogram. No item may exceed 32kg unless approved in writing by Air Chathams in advance. Furthermore, the maximum dimensions for each piece of checked baggage are limited to 158cm (total of length + width + height).
Bulky items like surfboards, bicycles, golf bags, and musical instruments may exceed standard dimensions but can be transported for an additional fee, provided they meet the airline’s handling criteria.
Air Chathams Excess and Oversized Baggage Policy
Checked baggage exceeding the included weight limit will be charged at a fixed rate per excess kilogram. No single item can exceed 32kg without written approval from Air Chathams. Additionally, standard checked baggage dimensions should not exceed 158cm (length + width + height).
Bulky items such as bicycles, surfboards, golf clubs, or musical instruments may be accepted for an extra fee. Oversized baggage may travel on the next available flight if space isn’t available, and the airline accepts no liability for delays in such cases.
When passengers book a Saver or Full Economy fare, permitting a checked baggage allowance, and if their bulky baggage is the sole checked baggage. In such cases, a $3.50 kg excess baggage fee/kg will be incurred for luggage weighing more than 23 kg. If the bulky bag is checked as additional baggage, then the charge for the extra bag will apply. Bulky and oversized bags will even attract a $50 handling fee per item.
Air Chathams Carry-On Baggage Guidelines
All passengers are allowed one carry-on item not exceeding 7kg and a maximum linear dimension of 115cm. A small purse or handbag is permitted in addition to the main carry-on. Space restrictions may require cabin baggage to be stowed in the aircraft hold for the duration of the flight.
Can You Carry Mobility Devices and Medical Equipment On An Air Chathams Flight?
Mobility aids like wheelchairs, crutches, and walking frames are carried at no extra cost. If a passenger requires mobility equipment to reach the aircraft, Air Chathams will either load the item in an accessible location or provide an airline wheelchair for boarding and disembarking.
Air Chathams’ Policy for Special Items and Live Animals
Live animals are permitted on all domestic flights. Pets such as cats and dogs must be securely caged in hard plastic crates that meet IATA regulations and contain absorbent materials. Soft or wooden crates are not accepted.
When accompanying a passenger, an animal carriage counts toward the checked baggage allowance. When shipped alone, a freight rate per kilogram and a handling fee based on the combined weight of the animal and crate apply. Additional rules may apply for international transport.
Carriage of Service/Guide Dogs On Air Chathams
Air Chathams warmly accommodates service and guide dogs travelling alongside their handlers, and this essential service is free of charge. Here’s what you need to know:
Key Guidelines
- Complimentary Travel
If you’re travelling with a certified service or guide dog, there is no extra fare—your furry companion travels for free as part of your booking.
- Booking Notification Required
To ensure a smooth experience, you must notify Air Chathams’ reservations team when making your booking. They will register the service dog in the system, enabling appropriate arrangements onboard .
- Official Recognition
Dogs must be genuine service animals—typically those trained to assist passengers with disabilities. Standard pets are not permitted in the cabin, and only official service dogs qualify under this policy .
On the Day of Travel
- Smooth Check-In Experience
By informing the airline in advance, Air Chathams staff are prepared to accommodate your service dog at check-in—no separate fare or documentation is needed at the desk.
- Cabin Comfort & Compliance
Although the official Terms & Conditions don’t list cabin restrictions, experienced practice indicates service dogs typically remain near their handler throughout the flight. Reserving your spot early is best to help ensure a comfortable travel experience.
Prohibited and Dangerous Goods On Air Chathams
Certain items are prohibited in both checked and carry-on baggage per the IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations. Examples include:
- Compressed gases, flammable liquids, and poisons
- Hoverboards, lithium-powered vehicles
- Loose batteries and power banks (carry-on only if properly packed)
- E-cigarettes and vaporizers (carry-on only, must not be used on board)
- Cash, important documents, or jewellery
- Fragile items like glassware
- Electronics such as laptops, cameras, and mobile phones
- Essential medications
- Items with inadequate packaging
Knives, scissors, and other sharp objects are also restricted. Any undeclared dangerous goods discovered will be confiscated without compensation. Additionally, items such as knives, flammable liquids, firearms, and lithium battery-powered transport devices (like hoverboards) are either restricted or entirely prohibited. Power banks and spare batteries may only be carried in hand luggage, never in checked bags.
Items Not Recommended in Checked Baggage
Passengers are advised not to place the following in checked baggage:
- Jewelry, antiques, or fragile items
- Electronics such as laptops, phones, and cameras
- Cash, important documents, and passports
- Medications required during or immediately after the flight
Air Chathams accepts no liability for damage or loss of these items unless declared and accepted in writing prior to travel.
Alcohol and Liquid Restrictions
Unopened alcohol may be carried in carry-on baggage as long as it complies with volume and packing requirements:
- Containers should be 100ml or less
- Must be in a sealed, transparent bag (max 1L capacity)
Consumption of alcohol on board is strictly prohibited. Violations are subject to legal penalties under the Civil Aviation Amendment Act 2004.
Baggage Collection and Claims Rules for Air Chathams
Passengers must collect checked baggage after each flight, especially on non-connecting services like Pitt Island. Air Chathams does not provide through-baggage service for such routes.
Any baggage damage or loss must be reported before leaving the airport or within 24 hours of discovery. Reimbursement (up to NZ$250) is limited to essential items and is granted only with valid receipts submitted within 72 hours.
Claims require proof of loss or damage. Air Chathams is not responsible for:
- Normal wear and tear
- Damage to protruding parts (e.g., wheels, straps)
- Overweight items
Baggage for Non-Connecting Flights
Passengers are required to collect their baggage after every flight segment unless otherwise informed. Especially for services to Pitt Island, through-checking is not available. Travelers should allow ample time between connecting flights to retrieve and re-check baggage.
Air Chathams’ Lost or Damaged Baggage Policy
If baggage is lost or damaged, passengers must report it before leaving the airport or within 24 hours. Claims should be submitted using official Air Chathams forms. Essential items may be reimbursed up to NZ$250 upon submission of receipts within 72 hours. Liability does not cover normal wear and tear or damage to parts like handles and wheels. Compensation also excludes overweight baggage unless prior approval was granted.
Also Read: China Airlines Baggage Policy
Unclaimed or Wrongly Collected Baggage
Unclaimed baggage not retrieved within 30 days may be disposed of. Passengers who mistakenly collect the wrong baggage must notify and return it to Air Chathams immediately. The airline assumes no liability for delays or issues resulting from such incidents.
Conclusion
Being well-versed in the Air Chathams baggage policy helps passengers travel more confidently. From weight allowances and special item carriage to safety restrictions and compensation rules, every section of the policy is designed to promote passenger convenience while upholding security standards. To avoid unexpected issues, always verify baggage eligibility and fees during booking or prior to departure via Air Chathams’ official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you exceed your included baggage allowance, you’ll be charged NZD 3.50 per excess kg, up to a maximum weight of 32 kg per piece. Additional checked bags (up to 23 kg) cost NZD 35 if booked online, NZD 55 at the airport for domestic flights, or NZD 70/90 for Chatham/Norfolk flights.
Each passenger is allowed one hand‑carried item weighing no more than 7 kg, with total dimensions (L+W+H) not exceeding 115 cm. Oversized cabin bags may be relocated to the hold.
Yes—infants aged 7 days to under 24 months get an extra 5 kg checked baggage allowance. Plus, up to two infant items (e.g., stroller, car seat, portable cot) can be checked free of charge, based on aircraft space.
Items like surfboards, bike gear, golf clubs, or firearms must fit airline size rules and incur a $50 per-item handling fee. If their weight exceeds 23 kg, excess charges apply. Space constraints may also delay carriage to a later flight.
No. Carriage of excess or oversized items is subject to aircraft payload and space. If capacity is limited, your baggage may be transported on the next available flight, with no liability for delay.
Air Chathams prohibits placing essential valuables (cash, passports, jewellery), electronics, fragile items, and dangerous goods in checked bags unless authorised. Lithium batteries, power banks, and e-cigarettes must be carried in hand baggage only.
Any visible damage or loss must be reported immediately at the airport using Air Chathams’ baggage claim form. For hidden damage, passengers have 24 hours to notify the airline. Reimbursement for essentials (up to NZ$250) may be available with valid receipts submitted within 72 hours.
Passengers can pre-purchase additional checked baggage online through the “Manage My Booking” portal on the Air Chathams website. This option is generally more affordable than adding extra bags at the airport, where higher fees apply.
No. Air Chathams does not offer interline baggage transfers. Passengers must collect their baggage after each flight and recheck it for subsequent journeys, especially when traveling to or from Pitt Island, which is always treated as a non-connecting service.
