Cape Air Baggage Policy

Traveling on regional airlines like Cape Air requires understanding aircraft-specific rules, especially when it comes to luggage. The Cape Air baggage policy is designed to reflect the unique operational needs of its fleet, which includes smaller aircraft like the Cessna 402, Britten-Norman Islander, and Tecnam Traveller. 

This policy focuses on balancing safety, efficiency, and passenger convenience while aligning with federal safety and security regulations. From complimentary allowances to special item guidelines, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the baggage regulations every Cape Air passenger should know.

Cape Air’s Free Baggage Allowance

Each ticketed passenger is allowed to bring one personal item and one additional small bag at no extra cost:

• Gate-Checked Bag: One small item not exceeding 45 linear inches (L + W + H = 45″) that must be able to pass through TSA security screening.
• Personal Item: A smaller item like a briefcase, purse, or laptop bag not exceeding 36 linear inches.

Exceptions to Free Baggage Allowance 

On Cessna 402 and Britten-Norman Islander aircraft, all items, including carry-ons, are gate-checked and returned planeside after landing, as there is no overhead or under-seat storage.

On the Tecnam Traveller, personal items up to 12″ x 6″ x 8″ may be stowed under the seat in front of you, although not all seats offer this storage option. Oversized items will be gate-checked and returned post-flight.

Cape Air Checked Baggage Guidelines

Cape Air provides several options for travelers needing to check additional luggage beyond the complimentary allowance. Baggage fees are determined by the number of bags, their weight, and whether they exceed the standard size restrictions. It’s important to note that all checked baggage is subject to available space and must pass security inspection.

• First Checked Bag:
  • If the bag weighs between 0 and 50 lbs, a fee of $30 applies.
  • For bags weighing between 51 and 70 lbs, a $30 fee is charged plus an $80 overweight fee, totaling $110.
• Second Checked Bag:
  • Bags up to 50 lbs incur a $40 fee.
  • If the bag weighs 51 to 70 lbs, the total charge becomes $120 ($40 standard fee + $80 overweight fee).
• Third Checked Bag:
  • For bags up to 50 lbs, the fee is $80.
  • Bags weighing between 51 and 70 lbs are subject to a total fee of $160 ($80 + $80 overweight fee).

Important Restrictions:

• Bags over 70 lbs or exceeding 62 linear inches in size are not accepted for transport.
• Passengers should ensure that their baggage is appropriately packed and ready for possible inspection at the airport.

TSA 3-1-1 Rule for Carry-On Liquids

In compliance with U.S. Department of Homeland Security directives, all passengers departing from or transiting through U.S. airports must follow the 3-1-1 rule for carrying liquids in your cabin bag. This regulation is part of enhanced security measures designed to minimize the risk of terrorism and ensure safe air travel for all.

What is the 3-1-1 Rule?

The 3-1-1 rule has the following guidelines for carrying aerosols, liquids, and gels in your cabin baggage:

• 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters or less in each container
• One quart-sized plastic bag, which is clear and resealable
• One bag for each passenger

Each passenger may bring a single quart-sized bag that contains travel-sized containers of aerosols, liquids, and gels. These containers must not exceed 3.4 oz. (100 ml) individually. The bag must be transparent, resealable, and fully closed during screening. It will be inspected separately from your carry-on at the security checkpoint.

What Items Are Allowed Beyond the 3.4 oz. Limit?

Certain essential liquids and gels are permitted in quantities greater than 3.4 oz,  but must be declared at the security checkpoint. These include:

• Baby essentials such as formula, breast milk, baby food, or juice in containers (only if traveling with an infant or toddler)
• Medications (liquid, gel, or aerosol-based)
• Diabetic or other medically necessary liquids, including nutritional supplements

These items should be easily accessible and must be presented to the TSA officers during the screening process.

Important Notes:

1. All non-compliant items must be packed in checked baggage to avoid confiscation.
2. Passengers found carrying undeclared or oversized liquids may be subject to secondary screening.
3. Liquids and gels purchased after clearing TSA checkpoints (within the sterile area) are allowed on board.

Cape Air Baggage Policy – Special Baggage Considerations

Cape Air accommodates certain special items as checked luggage if they meet weight and size restrictions. One special item may be carried instead of a standard checked bag if space permits. Special items may include:

• Small coolers with dry ice (max 50 lbs, 42 in)
• Golf bags (max 62 linear inches)
• Fishing gear, skis, scuba equipment (comprising an empty scuba tank and dive gear), hockey/lacrosse sticks, archery equipment, and even antlers, all subject to specific dimensional limits per aircraft type.

For example, on the Tecnam Traveller, the maximum length for skis or archery cases is 42 inches, whereas the Cessna 402 can accommodate up to 70 inches. Moreover, if you are carrying hockey or lacrosse sticks, you may bring up to two sticks that are taped together. This will be regarded as a special item and shouldn’t exceed 50 lbs. 

When carrying animal horns or antlers, ensure that they don’t contain any residue. The skull has to be wrapped, and the tips must be protected. They shouldn’t exceed a dimension of 15 inches x 30 inches x 45 inches. On the Tecnam Traveller, the maximum dimensions are 15 inches x 30 inches x 42 inches. 

Exempt Items and Passengers

Some items and passengers qualify for baggage fee exemptions:

• Assistance-Related Items (No Fee):
  • Wheelchairs, walking sticks, crutches, and compliant portable oxygen devices
  • Infant/child safety seats, strollers, and diaper bags
• Military Personnel (No Fee):
  • Active duty, reserve, national guard, and retired personnel (with ID)
  • Registered dependents also qualify
• Infants and Children:
  • Children (2–18 years) get the same allowance as adults
  • Infants (under 2 years) do not receive a separate allowance, but may bring essential items listed above

Connecting Flights and Codeshare Policies

Cape Air honors through-checking of baggage when connecting to other flights on the same ticket. If your connecting airline is a codeshare partner, Cape Air applies its own baggage fees only if your first flight has the 9K airline code. Otherwise, the fees and policies of the partner airline apply.

If your connecting flights are booked on separate tickets, you’ll need to collect your bags and recheck them manually.

Cape Air’s Liability and Restrictions

Cape Air’s liability for baggage is limited:

• It is not liable for fragile, valuable, or perishable items.
• Normal wear and tear, like scuffs and scratches, is not compensated.
• Smart Bags having non-removable lithium batteries cannot be carried. Batteries must be removed and carried in accordance with TSA guidelines. In the case of lithium metal batteries, the lithium shouldn’t be more than 2 grams. There is an exception for portable medical electronic devices that may be between 2 grams and 8 grams. 

Passengers are advised to report any delayed or damaged bags within 24 hours and review Cape Air’s Contract of Carriage for full details on compensation limits.

Cape Air Delayed Baggage Policy: What to Do If Your Luggage Doesn’t Arrive

Cape Air acknowledges that baggage delays can be inconvenient and aims to resolve such incidents efficiently and with transparency.

Immediate Steps at the Airport

If your checked baggage does not arrive on your flight:

• Visit the Cape Air Customer Service Desk at your arrival airport before leaving the terminal.
• File a Delayed Baggage Report providing all relevant details. This allows staff to initiate a search process promptly.

How Cape Air Handles Delayed Bags

• In most cases, delayed baggage is located and delivered on the next available Cape Air flight or within 24 hours.
• Some airports offer delivery services, but for baggage accepted as “Excess” or “Space Available,” you must retrieve the baggage personally from the airport.
• You will be contacted as soon as your bag is located and ready for retrieval.

Interim Expense Reimbursement

If you are away from home when your bag is delayed:

• You may qualify for reasonable interim expense reimbursement (e.g., toiletries, clothing).
• Prior approval is required from the Cape Air office at your arrival airport.
• Retain and submit original receipts for any qualifying purchases.

Extended Delays

If your baggage is still missing after 5 days:

• You are encouraged to print, complete, and submit a Customer Claim Form.
• If the baggage is not located within 30 days, Cape Air will initiate the settlement process in accordance with its published Contract of Carriage.

Cape Air Baggage Policy – Damaged Baggage or Missing Contents

Cape Air takes care in transporting baggage but recognizes that incidents may occasionally occur. The airline has specific guidelines for evaluating and compensating for damage.

Understanding Normal Wear and Tear

Cape Air is not liable for minor cosmetic damage typically resulting from standard baggage handling procedures. This includes:

• Scratches, dents, scuffs, stains, or minor tears
• Damage caused by exposure to weather (rain, snow, sun, etc.)
• General wear from conveyor belts, baggage carts, and aircraft holds

Not Covered

Cape Air does not assume liability for damage due to:

• Overpacked or poorly protected luggage
• Fragile or valuable items like jewelry, cellphones, key, silverware money, etc, perishable goods, or spillable liquids transported in checked baggage or personal wing bags—even if the airline is aware of them; that’s why they should go in your carry-on bag

Reporting Damage or Missing Items

If you find that your baggage is damaged or items are missing:

• Report the issue before leaving the airport, or within 24 hours of arrival
• A Cape Air agent may assist in authorizing the repair or replacement of eligible items or bags
• Claims must be supported by appropriate documentation and inspection

Cape Air’s Lost and Found Policy: Items Left Behind

If you leave personal belongings behind during your journey, Cape Air offers support in recovering your items:

Items Left on Cape Air Aircraft or Gate Area

• Contact the Cape Air station at your final destination airport using the phone numbers provided below
• You may also submit an online report to Cape Air’s Customer Care Team for further assistance

Items Left at TSA Security Checkpoints

• TSA has its own Lost and Found department
• Visit the TSA Lost and Found webpage for information and direct contact details for each airport

Prohibited and Restricted Items on Cape Air Flights

To ensure passenger safety and comply with federal aviation regulations, Cape Air strictly enforces policies concerning hazardous materials and restricted items. These guidelines are based on directives from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

TSA Compliance and General Rule

Passengers are advised to visit the official TSA website for a comprehensive and up-to-date list of items permitted or restricted in carry-on and checked baggage. Below are key highlights and Cape Air-specific rules.

Items Strictly Prohibited on Cape Air Flights

To ensure the safety of all passengers and crew, Cape Air strictly prohibits certain items from being carried on board or in checked baggage. These restrictions align with federal aviation regulations and are enforced without exception.

Household Chemicals

• Not allowed in checked or carry-on bags: Items like bleach, drain cleaners, solvents, and other corrosive substances contain hazardous chemicals. These can emit toxic fumes or cause chemical burns and corrosion if spilled or exposed.

Flammable Liquids & Gases

• Prohibited items include: Fuels, adhesives, paint thinners, solvent-based products, and alcoholic beverages over 140 proof.
• Flammable gases such as lighter refills and camping gas canisters are also not permitted.

These items pose a significant fire and explosion risk due to potential leakage.

Explosives and Fireworks

• Items such as fireworks, signal flares, or any kind of explosive device are banned.
• Even minor impact or pressure changes can trigger detonation, making them unsafe for transport.

Hazardous Materials

Cape Air prohibits carriage of materials including:

• Strike-anywhere matches
• Spray cans and aerosol pesticides
• Gasoline-powered tools
• Self-inflating rafts
• Poisonous or infectious substances
• Mace or pepper spray

Lithium Batteries and Electronic Devices

Due to the fire hazards associated with lithium batteries and certain electronics, Cape Air enforces strict rules on how these items can be transported. Passengers must follow specific guidelines to ensure safe travel.

Spare Lithium and Non-Lithium Batteries

Spare batteries carried for personal use are permitted only under strict conditions:

• Must be protected from damage and short circuits (e.g., in original packaging or with taped terminals).
• Not allowed in:
  • Checked baggage
  • Gate-checked baggage
  • External baggage compartments

Quantity Limits:

• Lithium metal batteries: max 2 grams of lithium content
• Lithium-ion batteries: max 100 Wh (watt-hour) rating
• Between 100–160 Wh: max 2 batteries allowed only if carried in carry-on and properly protected

NEVER Accepted Batteries:

• Damaged batteries
• Recalled or defective batteries
• Vehicle and wet cell batteries (used in boats, cars, motorcycles, etc.)

E-Cigarettes and Vaping Devices

Use of e-cigarettes or personal vaporizers is prohibited at all times onboard Cape Air flights.

• These devices must not be placed in checked baggage or external compartments due to fire risks identified by the FAA.
• Recharging e-cigarettes during the flight is also prohibited.
• If carrying any such device, inform a Cape Air agent at check-in.

Lithium-Powered Mobility Devices (Hoverboards)

Due to their propensity to ignite, devices such as:

• Hoverboards
• Airwheels
• Solowheels

are not accepted on any Cape Air flight.

Cape Air’s Marijuana Policy

Although some U.S. states have legalized marijuana for recreational or medical use, Cape Air operates under federal aviation law:

• TSA prohibits possession of marijuana in all forms at U.S. airports.
• Cape Air does not allow marijuana (even medical) to be transported on any of its flights, in any location or jurisdiction.
• Passengers carrying marijuana do so at their own legal risk and may be referred to law enforcement authorities.

Cape Air’s Policy Regarding Oxygen Devices and Medical Equipment

Cape Air has clear restrictions on the use and transport of oxygen devices and medical equipment to ensure onboard safety. Only select medical devices are allowed under specific conditions.

Not Allowed Onboard:

• Personal oxygen tanks, canned oxygen, and oxygen cylinders are not permitted for use or transport.
• Cape Air is not authorized to supply medical oxygen during flights.
• Use of POCs (Portable Oxygen Concentrators) is prohibited on board.

Transport-Only Medical Devices:

The following devices may be transported but not used onboard:

• POCs (must follow all carry-on battery regulations)
• CPAP machines (can be checked or carried on)
• These items:
  • Must meet carry-on size/weight restrictions
  • Do not count toward baggage limits, as they are considered assistive devices for customers with disabilities
  • Are transported free of charge

Reminder: If you are connecting to another airline, it is your responsibility to inform and comply with the other carrier’s policies for medical equipment or assistive devices.

Cape Air’s Rules for Carrying Firearms 

Firearms can be carried in checked baggage when they are unloaded and also encased within a hard-sided box. The box must be locked, and the key should be at the disposal of the passenger in charge of checking the baggage. The customer carrying a firearm must be 18 years or above, and has to declare it in writing by completing a declaration tag. 

Small arms ammunition can also be checked when packaged well. They can be packed along with the firearm, but the latter has to be unloaded. The ammunition checked in this way shouldn’t exceed 11 pounds. 

Important Safety Notice Regarding Cape Air’s Baggage Policy 

This list is not all-inclusive. Passengers are responsible for understanding and complying with federal and airline-specific regulations. Transporting unauthorized dangerous goods is a violation of U.S. Federal Law (49 U.S.C. § 5124) and may result in civil or criminal penalties.

Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) on Cape Air Flights

Cape Air adheres to federal safety regulations regarding the carriage and use of Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) onboard its aircraft. Although most portable consumer electronics are allowed in your baggage, strict guidelines are enforced to ensure they do not interfere with the aircraft’s navigation systems.

What Devices Are Permitted?

Common personal electronics such as cell phones, tablets, laptops, digital cameras, handheld gaming devices, and portable music players are allowed in checked, gate-checked, or carry-on baggage. These devices typically operate with batteries that fall within acceptable limits under Cape Air’s battery policy. However, certain exceptions—such as e-cigarettes and hoverboards—are restricted or prohibited due to safety concerns.

Usage Restrictions During Flight

Even if PEDs are permitted in baggage, their usage onboard is tightly regulated. All personal electronic devices must be completely turned off during all phases of the flight—from boarding and taxiing to takeoff, cruising, and landing. This includes devices such as smartphones, laptops, tablets, cameras, and music players. Additionally, mobile phones must remain switched off during ramp boarding and deplaning procedures as well.

Also Read: Air Chathams Baggage Policy

Devices Always Allowed On Cape Air Without Restrictions

A select group of PEDs is considered safe and may be used at all times during the flight, including:

• Hearing aids and pacemakers
• Portable voice recorders
• One-way pagers
• Electric razors
• Electronic or digital wristwatches
• Approved medical electronic equipment

Devices Strictly Prohibited Onboard

The following devices are not approved for use under any circumstances while onboard a Cape Air aircraft due to potential safety risks:

• AM/FM radios and television receivers
• Wireless Bluetooth devices (headphones, mice, keyboards, etc.)
• Electronic smoking devices, such as e-cigarettes or vapor pens
• Personal air purifiers or ozone generators
• Remote-controlled toys or devices
• Two-way communication devices (except where explicitly permitted)
• Portable Oxygen Concentrators (POCs) for active use onboard

Cape Air’s policies are guided by FAA regulations to maintain safety and minimize any potential interference with flight operations. Passengers are encouraged to review and comply with all electronic device policies before boarding.

Conclusion

The Cape Air baggage policy reflects the operational realities of flying on smaller aircraft, while still accommodating a variety of passenger needs. By understanding what’s allowed, what incurs fees, and how items are handled on different aircraft, passengers can plan more efficiently and avoid surprises at the airport. Whether you’re traveling with sports gear, children, or simply packing a weekend bag, following the Cape Air baggage policy ensures a safe and smooth journey.

Frequently Asked Questions