30 Mar 2011

Dragonair Follows New International Practice in Baggage Provisions for Multi-Carrier Journeys

Dragonair announced today that it will follow the new baggage resolution introduced by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) for setting baggage allowances and excess baggage charges for journeys involving multiple carriers. The new resolution, applicable to all member airlines, is effective from 1 April 2011.

Under IATA's new "Baggage Provisions Selection Criteria" (Resolution 302), for all tickets issued after the above date, the baggage travel allowances and charges for journeys involving more than one carrier will follow the allowances and charges of the "Most Significant Carrier" (MSC) of the journey. MSC is defined as the first carrier crossing the IATA Tariff Area or Sub-area if within a Tariff Area. In the case if it is within a Sub-area, it will be the first carrier performing the international sector. Exceptions will be in place for journeys originating from or with the furthest point being inside the United States.

As the baggage allowance or excess baggage charges are subject to the practice of MSC, passengers travelling on multiple carriers may see an increase or decrease in the current rate, which refers to a set of allowances and charges agreed in the industry. Passengers are advised to contact their travel agent or Dragonair reservations offices for any enquiries. If the entire journey is solely on Dragonair and its sister airline Cathay Pacific, the allowances and charges will not be affected by the new resolution. There will be no changes to Dragonair's checked baggage allowances, cabin baggage allowances and extra baggage charges.

While detailed explanation of MSC can be found in the Dragonair's website, www.dragonair.com, the following examples will provide a brief illustration on definition of a MSC:

1. The first carrier crossing the IATA Tariff Area (from one Tariff Area to another)

Cathay Pacific is the MSC

2. The first carrier crossing the IATA Sub-area (if travel within a Tariff Area but from one Sub Area to another)

Dragonair is the MSC

3. The first carrier performing the international sector (if travel within a Sub area)

Dragonair is the MSC

4. Exceptions for journeys originating from or with the furthest point being inside the United States

American Airlines is the MSC

Dragonair, an affiliate member of oneworld, is a Hong Kong-based airline operating a fleet of 31 passenger aircraft and serving 33 regional destinations, including 17 cities in Mainland China. Dragonair has been recognised for its product and service quality, and was voted "World's Best Regional Airline" in the annual World Airline Survey run by Skytrax in 2010. Dragonair is part of the Cathay Pacific Group, providing seamless connectivity for passengers to more than 140 cities around the globe.

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Dragonair web site: www.dragonair.com