Carry-on baggage

This regulation governs carry-on baggage for Part 121 air carriers (scheduled airlines). Airlines must have an FAA-approved carry-on baggage program that screens each passenger's bags for size and quantity before boarding. Passengers exceeding the allowance cannot board.

Before closing the doors for departure, a crewmember must verify all baggage is properly stowed. For takeoff and landing, bags must be in approved closets/compartments, under seats with restraints to prevent sliding forward (and sideways into the aisle for aisle seats), or in overhead bins equipped with restraining devices or doors. Loose bags in unequipped overhead racks are prohibited.

Passengers must follow crew instructions about baggage stowage. The regulation includes special provisions allowing blind passengers to stow flexible travel canes flat on the floor in specific locations, including under connected seats or near non-emergency exit windows, without blocking aisles.

*This is a plain-English summary for study only. The official 14 CFR text on this page is controlling — always read the current regulation and consult a CFI.*