Ethiopia 🇪🇹 · ET · Verified 2026-08-27
Ethiopian Airlines Baggage Allowance 2026
Ethiopian Airlines uses PIECE concept on international routes — 2 × 23 kg checked in Economy on nearly every long-haul (Africa-Asia, Africa-Europe, Africa-Americas). This is more generous than most European or Asian carriers on the same routes.
Full baggage rules by fare class
| Class | Carry-on | Personal item | Checked | First bag fee | Overweight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy (international) | 7 kg 55 × 40 × 20 cm | Small handbag/laptop bag | 2 × 23 kg (piece concept) | Free | $100-200 per extra bag |
| Business | 7 kg + 7 kg 55 × 40 × 20 cm each 2 pieces | Handbag | 2 × 32 kg (piece concept) | Free | $100-200 |
The real rules
Ethiopian Airlines uses PIECE concept on international routes — 2 × 23 kg checked in Economy on nearly every long-haul (Africa-Asia, Africa-Europe, Africa-Americas). This is more generous than most European or Asian carriers on the same routes.
ShebaMiles Silver/Gold status adds +10kg / +20kg to allowance. Star Alliance Silver/Gold: +10kg / +20kg.
Domestic Ethiopia flights use weight concept: 20 kg checked + 7 kg carry-on Economy. Regional Africa flights (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda) similar to international.
Key rules quick reference
- ✓2 × 23 kg piece concept on all international routes
- ✓Business 2 × 32 kg piece concept
- ✓ShebaMiles Silver/Gold: +10kg/+20kg
- ✓Star Alliance Silver/Gold: +10kg/+20kg
- ✓Domestic Ethiopia: 20 kg weight concept
Insider tip
Ethiopian Airlines is one of the few African carriers offering 2 × 23 kg on Africa-North America routes (via Addis Ababa hub). For US travelers heading to East Africa, ET's baggage allowance beats KLM/Air France Y2 flights by 10-15 kg.
Data verified 2026-08-27 against Ethiopian Airlines's official baggage policy page. Rules change — confirm with the airline before travel.
Ethiopian Airlines baggage — FAQ
What is Ethiopian Airlines's carry-on allowance?
1 bag(s) at 7 kg, dimensions 55 × 40 × 20 cm. Plus 1 personal item (Small handbag/laptop bag).
What is Ethiopian Airlines's checked baggage allowance in Economy?
2 × 2 × 23 kg (piece concept). First bag fee: Free.
How much is overweight baggage on Ethiopian Airlines?
$100-200 per extra bag. Book excess weight online in advance where possible — airport rates are typically 50-100% higher.
Does Ethiopian Airlines Business Class include more baggage?
Yes — Business Class includes 2 × 32 kg (piece concept) checked plus 7 kg + 7 kg carry-on across 2 bag(s).
Can I take sports equipment on Ethiopian Airlines?
Sports equipment generally counts against your standard allowance if pre-declared. Book separately for excess weight.
What is Ethiopian Airlines's baggage insider tip?
Ethiopian Airlines is one of the few African carriers offering 2 × 23 kg on Africa-North America routes (via Addis Ababa hub). For US travelers heading to East Africa, ET's baggage allowance beats KLM/Air France Y2 flights by 10-15 kg.
Other airline baggage guides: