Quick Answer
✅ Yes, many airlines enforce carry-on weight limits in addition to size restrictions. While U.S. carriers often don’t weigh carry-ons, most international and budget airlines do.
Details
- U.S. airlines (like American, Delta, United) usually focus only on dimensions, not weight.
- European budget airlines (Ryanair, Wizz Air, EasyJet) almost always weigh carry-ons.
- Asian & Middle Eastern carriers (Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, ANA) enforce both size and weight.
- Weight limits vary between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 10 kg (22 lbs) depending on the airline.
Gotchas / Common Issues
- Some airlines only weigh bags at check-in counters, but others may weigh again at the gate.
- Even if your bag is under the size limit, overweight bags may be forced into the hold with fees.
- Travelers sometimes get away with slightly overweight bags if they carry them confidently, but it’s a gamble.
Sources
American Airlines – Carry-On Policy
Ryanair – Baggage Policy
Singapore Airlines – Cabin Baggage