Automated carrier baggage rules from Iata

The International Air Transport Association (Iata) announced Automated Carrier Baggage Rules (ACBR), the latest project in Iata's 'Simplifying the Business' programme. ACBR will provide a central database for interline baggage rules, enabling airlines, travel agents and passengers to know what baggage rules will apply for any given itinerary.

"Baggage rules are becoming increasingly complex and confusing. We must improve transparency so that travellers know what to expect," said Giovanni Bisignani, Iata's Director-General and CEO.

"Airlines have a variety of rules and fees depending on the number of bags checked, class of travel, frequent flyer status and routings. ACBR will put all of that information in one place so passengers can have a complete understanding of baggage fees before they buy their tickets – even for complicated journeys." Airlines will benefit from easier, faster and more accurate handling of baggage charges at check-in. This will reduce costly and time-consuming disputes between carriers over whose baggage allowances and charges apply for any given journey.

Iata is partnering with the Airline Tariff Publishing Company (ATPCO), who will host the central database. Iata will populate the database by mobilising airlines to submit their baggage rules to ATPCO by September 2010 for implementation in early 2011.