This is in the latest SA Voyager newsletter:
SAA would like to advise our valued customers that hand luggage regulations as determined by the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) and supported by the airport authority in Johannesburg will be enforced from 2 February 2015.
I had no idea that hand luggage regulations were determined by the SACAA! Is this still a hangover from WC2010 when all sorts of laws were passed to ensure that things would work smoothly for the duration of the tournament?
It goes on to say:
Although other airline customers may take only 7kg on board as hand luggage, SAA has an exemption from SACAA. Allowing our customers up to 8kg.
However, the number of pieces and sizes must be adhered to. No bag should exceed 56cm x 36cm x 23cm (total dimensions of 115cm) or weigh more than 8kg per bag.
Surely every airline will now ask for the same exemption and the SACAA would have to grant it? Wouldn't they all want the same "exemption" for their pax?
Then there's the detail:
Number of bags allowed are as follows:
• Economy-class customers are allowed one bag plus one slimline laptop bag.
• Business-class customers are allowed two bags plus one slimline laptop bag.
Slimline laptop bags must be of a size and thickness specifically designed to carry a laptop and charger. Handbags are considered part of a customer's wardrobe and not as hand baggage.
Baggage capable of carrying other items such as documents and clothes can be considered as cabin baggage if within the allowance.
Kindly ensure that your hand luggage is as per the above. If hand luggage does not comply, you will be referred back to the check-in counters to check the baggage in as hold baggage. Where applicable, SAA excess baggage fees will be charged.
We expect that during the initial implementation period, travellers might experience some delays in the check-in and security processes at all airports due to congestion. It is advisable that travellers arrive in good time for their flights as the first few weeks may see the process extended due to every piece of baggage (checked and carry-on) requiring weighing and checking prior to boarding.
Not sure if this part is SA specific or part of the SACAA rules. "Referred back to check-in counters" makes it sound like a check before security whereas "weighing and checking prior to boarding" sounds like it's at the embarkation. Will they have both - or at least the option of both?
Anyway, time to get me a (very capacious) man bag.
When flying J with that plus 2x 7kg plus a laptop bag I should be able to cope with almost all contingencies.