The revised baggage policy of Sharjah International Airport recommends that you follow its baggage guidelines strictly to avoid hassles during check-in. Here is a list of things to keep in mind before you pack your bags for travel:

• Ensure your baggage has at least one flat surface.  
• Exclude irregularly shaped or round baggage.
• Avoid taping two items of baggage together.
• Do not use loose ropes or strings, as they can affect movement through the baggage handling system. Try using strong tape instead.
• Avoid luggage with long straps.

If your baggage is not compliant with the above-mentioned guidelines of the Sharjah Aviation Services (SAS), it will not be allowed through check-in.

Lost baggage

Luggage will be categorised as lost if we are unable to trace it for 21 days from the date of filing the Property Irregularity Report. All claims shall be substantiated with an itemised list of contents, description, age, and proof of purchase or ownership of all items. 

Damaged baggage

Luggage is designed to protect its content. With use, your luggage will have minor cuts, scratches, scuffs, stains, dents, soil, or other normal wear and tear that does not affect the functionality and usage of the bag. We trust you understand that we are not responsible for this type of damage or any of the following:

• Damage to overpacked/oversized bags
• Damage to bags with fragile or perishable items 
• Baggage with manufacturing defects

Avoid carrying valuables such as jewellery, encashable articles, negotiable papers, and currency in your checked baggage. We will not be liable for loss or damage to or delayed delivery of fragile or perishable articles or items of value or importance such as money, jewellery, silverware, cameras, electronics, video, computer or photographic equipment, negotiable papers, securities, heirlooms, antiques, artefacts, work of art, irreplaceable books or publications, manuscripts, business documents, precious metals, and other similar valuables or commercial effects. We recommend that you get adequate insurance coverage prior to travelling.

For baggage which is damaged/pilfered, please report the same to the Air India personnel at the arrival hall. 

International baggage regulations

Liability for international carriage (with certain exceptions) is subject to rules and limitations established by the Indian Carriage by Air Act, 1972, as amended vide Act No. 28 of 2009, (dated 20 March 2009) and pursuant to Notification No S.O. 1283(e) issued by the Government of India notifying The Carriage by Air Amendment Act, 2009.

Domestic baggage regulations

Liability for carriage which is not international is subject to the rules and limitations relating to liability as specified by notifications issued from time to time under Section 8 of the Indian Carriage by Air Act, 1972. It is pursuant to Notification No S.O. 142(E), dated January 17, 2014, issued by the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

Conclusion:

Traveling with Air India is much easier and smoother when travelers understand and are aware of the Air India baggage policy prior to traveling. Knowing the cabin baggage restrictions and checked baggage restrictions, how they describe over-sized baggage and restricted items, and preparing these things beforehand will save a valuable amount of time and unnecessary cost at the airport. It doesn’t matter if it is either a domestic or international flight, Air India makes it very clear on the baggage allowance/entitlement, which varies per class of travel, route and class of fare ticket. Just remember to check and collect air carrier-related information related to dimensions, allowed weight, and the list of restricted items prior to leaving from your home. With this baggage-related knowledge and understanding, you will be able to travel with confidence, less unwanted stress, and have an overall better experience using Air India.