Iberia Implements Strict New Baggage Rules Affecting All Flights
In a significant development for travellers, major airline Iberia has announced a comprehensive tightening of its baggage regulations across all flight operations. The policy change represents a substantial blow to holidaymakers who may be accustomed to using various types of luggage.
New Restrictions on Non-Rigid Luggage
The airline has formally warned travel agents about passengers arriving at check-in with soft, round, or non-rigid luggage items. According to the new regulations, any baggage with a shape, material, or dimension that could potentially disrupt automated airport handling systems will be subject to scrutiny and potential additional charges.
Specific items now under increased scrutiny include:
- Soft bags and duffel bags
- Plastic-wrapped packages
- Oval or circular luggage
- Other non-rigid containers
Substantial Financial Penalties for Non-Compliance
Passengers who fail to adhere to these updated regulations face significant financial penalties. The additional fees vary depending on the flight route and can range from £35 to £125 per journey. In more severe cases, baggage may be completely rejected at the airline's discretion.
These charges apply on top of standard checked-baggage allowances, meaning even passengers with luggage included in their ticket price could face unexpected extra costs if their bags are deemed irregular.
Detailed Fee Structure for Irregular Baggage
Iberia has established a clear fee structure for irregular baggage that varies by destination:
- Domestic flights (excluding Canary Islands): £35
- Canary Islands, European, and African routes: £55
- Long-haul flights to America and Asia: £110
Operational and Safety Considerations
The airline has explained that the policy change is crucial because irregularly shaped items can obstruct conveyor belts and automated baggage systems, which are specifically engineered to process rigid, rectangular cases. Airport personnel will have ultimate authority to determine whether irregular baggage can be accepted, with decisions based on safety and operational considerations.
Iberia strongly recommends that passengers use rigid, rectangular, or stable suitcases to ensure safe transport and minimise potential incidents.
No Guarantee of Acceptance Even With Fee Payment
Importantly, paying the irregular baggage fee does not guarantee that luggage will be accepted. The airline has clarified that in exceptional cases, some items may not travel on the same service as the passenger, instead being transported separately in special holds or on subsequent flights.
Existing Special Item Charges Remain in Place
These new regulations supplement Iberia's existing fees for special baggage items. Sports equipment such as golf clubs, skis, and fishing gear typically cost between £26 and £34 when booked online, increasing to £52-£57 at the airport. Larger items including bicycles and surfboards attract higher prices, while musical instrument rates range from £130 to £285 per item depending on the route.
The airline also continues to transport specialised items such as firearms used in shooting competitions for fees ranging from £65 to £90, with armed officers handling these items directly at airport facilities.
As part of the International Airlines Group portfolio alongside British Airways, Aer Lingus, Vueling, and LEVEL, Iberia's policy changes may influence broader industry standards for baggage handling and passenger expectations across multiple airline brands.
