After examining its current practice Malev – in line with the latest progressive industry trends – is amending regulations pertaining to weight limits for checked baggage as from 2 June. From this date the airline increases from 20 kg to 23 kg the maximum weight of baggage per person that can be checked into the hold without attracting a surcharge on Economy Class flights of the Hungarian flag carrier in Europe.

Based on many years of experience Malev reckons that this additional three kilograms will go a long way to easing the process of packing before the flight, because these three kilos provide additional room for many important items in a traveller’s baggage. The new regulation only applies to routes operated by Malev. The 20-kg limit set down in IATA procedural regulations remains in force on all other services bearing a Malev flight number but operated together with a code-share partner.

The new baggage rules do not concern Economy Class passengers flying long-haul routes; they continue to enjoy a per piece baggage allowance of 23 kg for two items, that is a total of 46 kg. Business travellers on long-haul flights can also submit two pieces of luggage, but each weighing up to 32 kg (total 64 kg), for stowage in the hold.

However, with the introduction of this new allowance Malev is also implementing zero tolerance on payment of excess baggage, in other words, in future every passenger is required to pay the per kilo excess baggage surcharge on overweight baggage in all instances. This can be arranged with a bankcard at the Budapest check-in desk, or in cash/with a bankcard at the Malev ticket office at Ferihegy and at foreign airports. An excess baggage surcharge of €10 per kilogramme is levied for flights within Europe.

These changes do not affect the excess baggage allowances due to Malev frequent flyers; they remain entitled to the established allowances depending on membership tier (Silver Card frequent flyers: +10 kg, on North-Atlantic route +1piece, Gold Card frequent flyers: +15 kg on North-Atlantic route +1piece).

There is no change in regulations regarding carry-on baggage. Economy Class passengers may take onboard one piece of cabin baggage weighing up to 10 kg (max. dimensions: 55cm x 40cm x 20cm) and one small item of hand luggage e.g. camera, videocamera bag, laptop. Business customers continue to receive authorization for two carry-on bags when flying with Malev. The Malev website provides detailed information on conditions attached to the carriage of other special equipment e.g. sports gear and packages.