Continental revises luggage policy for its RP passengers

Due to passenger demand, Continental Airlines has exempted customers traveling to or from Manila from the 50-lb baggage weight policy.

The airline issued an advisory yesterday that the free baggage allowance for passengers traveling to or from Manila would be 70 lbs or 32 kgs per piece. “We are no longer charging $25 for baggage between 51 to 70 lbs to or from Manila,” Continental said.

The baggage policy for Manila passengers takes effect immediately.

Coach class passengers of Manila flights are allowed two pieces of checked baggage and one hand-carry bag. Business class customers may bring three pieces of checked baggage and one hand-carry bag.

The checked bags should not exceed 70 lbs or 32 kgs per piece. Linear dimensions should not exceed 62 inches or 157 centimeters per bag.

On Aug. 2, 2005, Continental modified its free checked-bags policy for international travel, to reflect new weight limits of 50 lbs. each for up to two pieces.

Excess baggage charges apply for international travel purchased on Sept. 7, 2005.

“The new U.S. Department of Transportation-approved policy, which makes Continental’s international checked baggage allowance consistent with its domestic baggage policy, is necessary to recoup increased handling and fuel costs associated with carrying heavier bags. It will apply unless prohibited by specific foreign governments for travel to/from their countries,” the airline had said in a statement.

Continental’s international free checked baggage policy allows:

* Two pieces of checked baggage free of charge; maximum weight of 50 lbs each; maximum linear dimensions of 62 inches each.

* OnePass Elite members: Two pieces of free checked baggage up to a maximum weight of 70 lbs each; maximum linear dimensions of 62 inches each.

* BusinessFirst or First Class customers: Three pieces of free checked baggage up to a maximum weight of 70 lbs each; maximum linear dimensions of 62 inches each.

* Military passengers on tour: May check in free of charge two duffel bags, sea bags or B-4 bags up to 70 Ibs/115 linear inches.

* Certain items may be carried free in lieu of one suitcase. See continental.com for details.

* Checked baggage over 50 lbs and not exceeding 70 lbs will be charged at the rate of $25 per piece. (Agnes E. Donato)