A new fee applied by Iberia to certain volumes transported in the hold came into force on January 28th. According to the Spanish television channel, Telecinco, the airline started charging an additional supplement for baggage considered irregular, with the amount reaching up to 140 euros per journey, depending on the route and type of trip.
The charge is applied at the airport upon check-in and does not replace the normal price for checked baggage. According to the same source, even if the passenger has already paid for or is entitled to the suitcase included in the ticket, they will have to bear the supplement if the volume does not meet the defined criteria.
How much can it cost
Prices vary depending on the destination and whether the flight is direct or with a connection. The television channel writes that, on routes to America and Asia, the supplement is 125 euros each way on direct flights and can reach 140 euros when there is a connection.
For connections to the Canary Islands, Europe and Africa, the charge is 60 euros each way, increasing to 70 euros on connecting flights. According to the same source, on domestic flights, except the Canary Islands, the fee is 35 euros, rising to 40 euros when there is a stopover.
What is at stake
The measure applies to volumes whose shape or material may interfere with automatic baggage handling systems at airports. The company intends to reduce operational incidents and reinforce security when transporting bags.
According to the same source, the volume is assessed at the special baggage counter, where it is determined whether or not it can be accepted for transport.
Iberia classifies any soft, round, oval, plastic or non-rigid volume as irregular luggage. The same source mentions that packaging that does not maintain a stable shape during transport is also covered. These items must be presented for verification before traveling. The final decision on acceptance rests with the company, taking into account operational and safety criteria.
It may even be refused
According to the same source, for operational or security reasons, the company may prevent luggage from being boarded. In exceptional situations, even if accepted, the package may not travel on the same flight as the passenger and may be sent to a special hold or transported on a later flight.
The new fee does not eliminate the right to baggage already included in the ticket. According to the channel, the supplement is just additional and focuses exclusively on the format considered irregular. The company therefore recommends the use of rigid, rectangular suitcases, which are better adapted to automatic systems. This option reduces the likelihood of additional charges and restrictions upon boarding.
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