Air China Carry-On Size & Personal Item Rules (2025 Guide)

Quick Answer
✅ Air China allows 1 carry-on bag (22 x 16 x 8 in / 55 x 40 x 20 cm) plus 1 personal item in Economy.
✈️ Weight limits: 11 lbs (5 kg) in Economy; 17 lbs (8 kg) in Business/First.
⚠️ Oversize or overweight bags must be checked.


Details

  • Economy Class:
  • 1 carry-on bag up to 22 x 16 x 8 in (55 x 40 x 20 cm).
  • Max weight: 11 lbs (5 kg).
  • Plus 1 personal item (handbag, laptop, duty-free).
  • Business/First Class:
  • 2 carry-on bags up to the same size.
  • Each bag max 17 lbs (8 kg).
  • Plus 1 personal item.
  • Personal item:
  • Must fit under the seat.
  • Checked baggage:
  • Economy: usually 1 free checked bag (50 lbs / 23 kg).
  • Business/First: 2 or more checked bags depending on route.
  • International flights:
  • Same cabin baggage rules apply across Air China’s global routes.

Air China Carry-On Rules Summary

ClassBags AllowedSize Limit (in/cm)Weight Limit
Economy1 carry-on + 1 personal22 x 16 x 8 (55 x 40 x 20)11 lbs (5 kg)
Business/First2 carry-ons + 1 personal22 x 16 x 8 (55 x 40 x 20)17 lbs (8 kg) each

How to Measure Your Bag for Air China

  1. Place your bag against a wall or flat surface.
  2. Measure height, width, and depth, including wheels, handles, and side pockets.
  3. Compare with Air China’s limit: 22 x 16 x 8 in (55 x 40 x 20 cm).
  4. If your bag exceeds size or weight limits, it must be checked.

Gotchas / Common Issues

  • ✈️ Strict weight limits: 5 kg in Economy is lighter than most airlines.
  • ✈️ Two-bag allowance: Only Business/First passengers get 2 carry-ons.
  • ✈️ Regional flights: Smaller planes may gate-check even compliant bags.

Sources