Airtran Carry-On Question

[disneyfox]

I am hoping someone out there can help me with my carry on question. On the airtran website they have specific measurements for a carry on but have a total dimension of 55'. If my bag is over the length specific of 24' but the total measurement is under the 55' will i be able to use that as a carry on? I have called airtran a few times with this question and received different answers. I just want to be prepared when i get there.

As always Thanks!

 

[lost*in*cyberspace]

The length is very important. If your bag is longer then the 24" length specified by AirTran, you won't be able to close the overhead bin door.

You need to use a smaller bag.

 

[robinb]

Airtran clearly states:

No carry-on item may exceed overall dimensions of 55 inches (length + width + height). The maximum combined linear measurement of the carry-on bag will not exceed any of the following measurements: 24" long + 18" wide + 13" tall. All carry-on items must fit under the seat or in the overhead bin. Any heavy item must be placed underneath the customer's seat. Any item with inflexible surfaces must be placed underneath the customer's seat or flat on the floor of an overhead bin.

So any bag longer than 24" cannot be carried on the plane. I flew Airtran last December and the overhead bins were PACKED solid. If you are looking for a cheap carry-on look at your local Marshalls or TJ Maxx. I actually bought my DD's Liz Claiborne 20" suitcase at Macy's during their Thanksgiving Sale (70% off the retail price plus another 20% off) ... I think I paid about $40 for it. Still less than checking a larger bag both ways!

 

[H.E. Pennypacker]

The length is very important. If your bag is longer then the 24" length specified by AirTran, you won't be able to close the overhead bin door.

You need to use a smaller bag.

It will fit if you put it in sideways instead of wheels first like you're supposed to. I see people do it all the time. You know - those people who don't think the carry on size rules apply to them and are far too important to check their bag and wait for it after the flight...

 

[maxiesmom]

It will fit if you put it in sideways instead of wheels first like you're supposed to. I see people do it all the time. You know - those people who don't think the carry on size rules apply to them and are far too important to check their bag and wait for it after the flight...

But be aware the FA can move the bag, and if it doesn't fit in the proper way, it is subject to be gate checked. I have seen that happen.

It is best really to follow your specific airline's guidelines when it comes to baggage size. And just know, if you try to sneak a larger bag on, you may end up with it checked.

 

[robinb]

It will fit if you put it in sideways instead of wheels first like you're supposed to. I see people do it all the time. You know - those people who don't think the carry on size rules apply to them and are far too important to check their bag and wait for it after the flight...

On my Airtran flight the FAs were making people turn their bags around so they didn't hog too much room. I guess the OP can chance it but she can be stopped at any time and made to pay to check her bag since it's too big.

 

[Missytara]

On my Airtran flight the FAs were making people turn their bags around so they didn't hog too much room. I guess the OP can chance it but she can be stopped at any time and made to pay to check her bag since it's too big.

Similar to our flight coming back from Disney last year. Everyone had tons of Disney bags and carry-ons. If the person put it in the bin sideways, the FA's turned it around and if it didn't fit, it was taken back to the gate and gate checked.

 

[disneyfox]

I have no problem paying to check my bags I am not trying to sneak anything past the FA. I really just wanted clarification on the policy because I have been given conflicting answers from Airtran cust service. I have enough other bags I was just hoping to swap two smaller carry ons for one bigger one. I am already planning to check 2 bags so it's not like I'm trying to get one over on them just pack efficient. Thanks to everyone for the help!

 

[lost*in*cyberspace]

But be aware the FA can move the bag, and if it doesn't fit in the proper way, it is subject to be gate checked. I have seen that happen.

I have seen this this happen far more frequently than in the past.