If you’re flying with Malta’s national airline, knowing Air Malta baggage allowance is key to a smoother trip. Here's the most important thing to know: Air Malta ceased operations in March 2024 and was succeeded by a new national carrier, KM Malta Airlines. That's why the rest of this article will refer to the “KM Malta Airlines” baggage rules. So, here's what you need to know before flying with KM Malta: what you can bring as a cabin bag, whether your luggage qualifies as an underseat bag, and the specific size restrictions that apply. We'll also cover permissible luggage weight and fees for any extra bags, and more.

Overview of Air Malta/KM Malta Airlines

KM Malta Airlines Ltd., which officially commenced operations on March 31, 2024, is the successor to Air Malta (KM). Since its debut, KM Malta Airlines has positioned itself as a respected, full-service European carrier, instead of being another budget brand in the sky. With routes to around 18 major passenger and cargo hubs, KM Malta Airlines ensures its passengers can easily reach Europe’s major capitals and business centres, including Italy, the UK, and Germany.

Not only are these aircraft quieter, but they also produce much less CO₂, making every KM Malta Airlines journey kinder to the planet. KM Malta Airlines prioritises passenger experience. In their two-class configuration, Business Class passengers can enjoy a superior flight, as they keep the middle seat free and give them complimentary meals. This dedication to service excellence has been independently verified, earning the 2026 APEX Four Star™ Major Airline award, determined exclusively by verified passenger feedback.

KM Malta/Air Malta Baggage Allowance - Cabin Bag

Not sure if your bag will make it on board with KM Malta? We break down exactly what fits in the cabin, what goes under the seat, and how to avoid extra Air Malta baggage fees. 

KM Malta/Air Malta Cabin Baggage Allowance: Overview

What to expect.

What is the baggage allowance on Air Malta? When flying with KM Malta (formerly Air Malta), you're allowed to bring a small bag (or your personal item, such as a laptop bag, small backpack, or handbag). In addition, if your fare allows, you can also bring a bigger piece of hand luggage. The Air Malta baggage dimensions for these carry-on items are strictly enforced to ensure a smooth boarding process: 

Do you know the real difference between a carry-on and a personal item? Find out in this comprehensive guide!

Economy Fares

The difference between 4 KM Malta Economy fares comes down to one thing: whether a free 10 kg hand luggage allowance is included or not. To avoid hefty charges at the boarding gate, make sure your luggage sticks to the Air Malta baggage allowance carry on policy right below.

Business Fares

All KM Malta Business fares are entitled to a small bag and hand luggage. The key difference is how much you can bring in your hand luggage, which still depends on the specific fare types.

Fly KM Malta Without the “Gate Stress”!

Don’t let KM Malta’s strict cabin rules slow down your adventure. Our 28L Underseat Backpack is sizer-tested worldwide and perfectly sized for KM Malta’s 40 × 34 × 18 cm allowance, which means zero stress of gate checks and hidden fees. Weighing just 600 g, our 28L CABINZERO Underseat Backpack also lets you pack more without tipping over the 10 kg limit. With a padded 15.6” laptop compartment, water-resistant finish, and Okoban tracking, it's the only bag you need for your Maltese escape.

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KM Malta/Air Malta Baggage Allowance - Checked Bag

Your Air Malta baggage allowance economy and business is determined by the fare you choose. Economy Basic fares generally do not include a free checked bag, while Economy Value fares and higher tiers typically allow one or more checked bags with varying weight allowances. For example, Air Malta economy Plus baggage allowance will typically include one checked bag of 20kg, making it a more economical choice if you need more space. Here's your guide to Air Malta baggage size & weight so you're fully prepared before packing.  

Economy Fares

Business Fares

Important notes:

• If your checked bag is heavier than your entitled limit, an excess fee will apply upon check-in.

• Items weighing more than 32 kg must be handled as cargo or split into smaller bags.

• Your standard Air Malta checked baggage size should not exceed a total linear dimension of 158 cm (length + width + height).

• You can buy a maximum of 10 checked bags online during booking or via “Manage My Booking”. Any extra checked bags beyond this threshold must be handled through Customer Service.

• Last but not least, baggage pooling isn’t permitted.

Keep your luggage right when flying with KM Malta. Photo by Monster Ztudio Adobe Stock

What is the KM Malta/ Air Malta baggage allowance for infants?

Planning a trip with your little one? If you’re flying with an infant under 2 on KM Malta Airlines, you can get 10 kg of checked baggage for free (except on Economy Basic fares). While infants do not have a personal cabin bag allowance, parents can still bring a stroller and car seat on board. If you purchase a separate seat for your little one, you're entitled to the exact same baggage allowance as an adult. Additionally, you still get the standard free carriage of a stroller and car seat.

Sports Equipment & CPAP

If you’re flying with a medical device or sports equipment, review Air Malta baggage policy before you fly. The Maltese airliner makes it simple to bring your device. Here’s what you need to know about their baggage policies and restrictions

Sports Equipment

KM Malta allows passengers to fly with their sports equipment, though specific rules will apply to make sure your journey goes smoothly. KM Malta treats sports equipment, such as bicycles, golf bags, and diving gear, as special baggage. They're not part of your free checked bag allowance, and you must book them in advance. 

To ensure safe transport, you also need to store your sports equipment in a hard case and check it in upon arrival at the airport. You can find a complete list of items that KM Malta considers sports equipment on their official website. If your gear isn't listed, it will fall under regular excess baggage, and excess baggage fees will apply. In addition, you should keep your bags under 32 kg. If it’s heavier, it’ll also count as excess baggage, and you’ll pay a little extra at check-in.

CPAP Equipment

Travelling with a CPAP machine or other essential portable medical devices? KM Malta treats them as assistive devices and won't count them toward your Air Malta baggage allowance. However, you need to get pre-approval by sending in a Special Assistance request (a MEDA form) to the airline's team at least 48 hours before your departure. Important Note: While you can bring the machine with you, you can't actually use it during the flight.

Musical Instruments

KM Malta lets you take your musical instruments as cabin baggage, checked baggage or even in a cabin seat. Small items up to 10 kg, such as violins or flutes, may be carried in the cabin. Larger instruments, however, must be checked into the hold, provided they are packed in a sturdy case and fall within your allowed baggage weight. If it exceeds your allowance, you'll need to pay €40 per piece, per flight. And remember: the total weight must never exceed the 32kg limit per piece.

Booking and Check-in Process with KM Malta/Air Malta

KM Malta Airlines makes booking and check-in simple, whether you prefer handling everything online or at the airport.

Air Malta Booking Process 

Secure your KM Malta flight in just a few clicks on their official website. Screenshot on KM Malta Airlines website

• Step 1: Go to the KM Malta Airlines website or app and enter your trip details: departure/arrival, dates, and passengers.
• Step 2: Review available flights (schedules, fares, inclusions, etc.) and choose the one that works best for you.
• Step 3: Enter all passenger details carefully (as they appear on IDs or passports)
• Step 4: Customise your flight by adding baggage, selecting your seat, requesting special services, etc.
• Step 5: Review your booking to make sure everything’s correct, then complete payment.
• Step 6: Receive e-ticket and Booking Reference (PNR) via email.

Air Malta Check-in Process 

Online Checking (Highly Recommended)

If you want to start your flight stress-free, online checking is the fastest way to get your boarding pass and skip lines at the airport. Online checking with KM Malta opens 24 hours before your flight and closes a few hours before departure. Follow these simple steps to complete your check-in process with KM Malta:

Pre-Departure (24 Hours Before):

• Step 1: Go to the KM Malta Airlines website or app. Click “Check-in.”
• Step 2: Enter your booking reference (PNR) and last name, and follow the prompts
• Step 3: Confirm flight and passenger details, including your passport information if needed.
• Step 4: Select a seat (optional, and fees may apply)
• Step 5: Upon completion, you can download a digital boarding pass or print one at home.

At the airport:

• Step 6: If you have checked baggage, you will then need to drop your bags at the Bag Drop counter upon arrival at the airport. Have your checked luggage, boarding pass, and ID documents ready for a fast tag and handover.
• Step 7: Once you’ve dropped your bags or if you’re travelling with carry-ons only, head straight to the security and then to your gate.

Important note: KM Malta online check-in isn't available for flights leaving from Berlin Airport.

Airport Checking

If you cannot check in online, whether it's due to flight or airport restrictions, you can just complete the check-in process at the airport counter. Here’s how you can proceed at the airport smoothly:

• Step 1: Arrive early. You should arrive at the airport at least 2.5 hours before your flight.
• Step 2: Find the KM Malta Airlines counter on the departure screens. Counters generally open 2.5–3 hours before takeoff.
• Step 3: Show your passport (or ID), booking confirmation or e-ticket to the check-in agent.
• Step 4: Place checked luggage on the belt, get it tagged, and receive your baggage receipt
• Step 5: Collect your printed boarding pass from the agent.
• Step 6: Go through security, then proceed to your gate.

FAQs

Got questions about flying with Malta Airways? This section covers the most common questions travellers ask about Malta Airways and its baggage allowance.

1. How do I add extra baggage on KM Malta/KM Malta?

You can purchase extra luggage in seconds via "Manage My Booking" on KM Malta's website or app. Simply enter your last name and booking reference, and choose from 15kg, 20kg, or 32kg weight tiers. Alternatively, you can add bags by calling customer support or during online check-in. Airport fees are usually much higher, and excess weight usually costs about €10 per kilogram. If you’re flying on an Economy Basic fare, you need to buy the Priority 10 bundle to carry a 10 kg cabin bag.

H3. 2. How strict is KM Malta/KM Malta Airlines with personal items?

From what travellers have shared, KM Malta Airlines is not very strict with hand luggage in practice (they're more relaxed compared with airlines like Ryanair). KM Malta Airlines lets passengers bring one small under-seat item. Because the official dimensions are quite small, anything bulky won't pass the sizer test and incur extra fees. 

The thing is, KM Malta Airlines does have the right to enforce its rules anytime, depending on the airport, staff, or how full the flight is. So while they’re generally not very strict, bringing a bigger bag is still a gamble.

H3. 3. What is the KM Malta/KM Malta hand luggage allowance for Economy Basic?

Economy Basic fare is highly restrictive regarding luggage. This fare only allows you to bring one small personal item (max. 40 x 34 x 18 cm), which must fit under the seat. Unlike higher tiers, it doesn't include standard cabin baggage of 10kg and checked luggage. If you're planning on bringing a standard 10kg wheelie bag, you'll have to pay extra for their 'Priority 10' bundle. Otherwise, no overhead space is included.

H3. 4. Can I pool my baggage weight with family members?

No, Malta Airlines doesn't allow "bag pooling". Allowances are per passenger, and you can't share, split or combine bags even if you're travelling with family. So, it's best to weigh your luggage carefully at home to make sure you're not exceeding the Air Malta baggage limits. Otherwise, you'll be hit with an overweight fee at the counter.

H3. 5. Can I bring a backpack and a carry-on on KM Malta/Air Malta?

Whether you can take a backpack plus a carry-on depends on your ticket type, as the airline imposes strict limits on cheaper fares. On Economy Basic or Value, you're limited to just one small personal item (maximum 40 × 34 × 18 cm) to be stowed under the seat. If you want to bring a 10 kg carry-on alongside your backpack, you'll need to book Economy Plus, Economy Flex, or Business Class, or add the "Priority 10" bundle to your basic fare.

Fly Stress-Free with Air Malta Bags

If you’re flying with Air Malta (now KM Malta Airlines), it’s smart to think about your baggage before you get to the airport. The airline provides flexibility across its eight fare types. However, remember to watch out: “Economy Basic” and “Value” tickets come with really tight hand luggage rules. 

Want to make the most of your trip to the Maltese Islands? Always pre-book your extra bags online to save time and money. In addition, stick to your ticket’s limits and the 32 kg max per item, and you're good to go. Enjoyed this guide? If yes, please spread it with your fellow travellers and share your travel tips in the comments below!

KELSEY