Space A travel, baggage allowances

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Kenneth Morain
  • 730th Air Mobility Squadron
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  Whether you are headed out to climb Mt. Fuji or to explore the ruins of ancient Rome, Space Available travel can help get you there for less. Keep in mind that unlike flying on the commercial airlines, you don't have the option of paying for excess luggage. So to avoid the hassles, here are a few guidelines regarding baggage allowances.

When flying as a Space-A passenger on Department of Defense owned or controlled aircraft the rule of thumb is two bags weighing up to 70 pounds each per passenger. There are additional baggage restrictions when flying on some smaller aircraft. For instance, C-21s have a baggage limitation of one bag at 30 pounds and C-40s allow two bags at 50 pounds each. If you are travelling with multiple family members, you also have the option of pooling your baggage. This means that a family of four will be able to check in eight bags, even if three of them belong to one person. Authorized checked baggage consists of personal effects packed in suitcases, duffle and C bags, or similar luggage-type containers.

Before you pack that oversized trunk, consider the size. Air Mobility Command has a maximum size limit of 62 linear inches. The total amount of linear inches is calculated by adding the height, length, and width. If your bag comes out weighing more than 70 pounds it will be counted as two, fulfilling total your allowance. If you're sitting there wondering how to get your golf clubs with you to Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, don't sweat, there are a few exceptions to these standards such as: A-3, B-4, duffle, and C bags will be allowed as one piece up to 80 linear inches as long as they do not exceed 100 pounds. The same exemption applies to large garment bags, golf clubs, surfboards, snow skis, bicycles, fishing equipment, rucksacks, and/or musical instruments. Whatever you are taking with you, make sure to pack it to prevent damaged or cause damage to other passenger baggage.

No matter where your travels take you, knowing what to expect along the way can make everything go more smoothly. Remember the cardinal rules of checking in Space-A luggage: no more than 2 bags per passenger, weighing no more than70 pounds at 62 linear inches each. Enjoy your travels with AMC and if you have any comments, questions, or ideas for other articles please don't hesitate to contact your local passenger terminal.