Boutique Air operates small propeller planes (Pilatus PC-12 and Cessna Grand Caravan) on short regional routes, often connecting smaller communities to larger airports. These flights typically last under two hours, so most passengers travel light. The Boutique Air Baggage Policy is straightforward but stricter than major airlines due to the aircraft size and weight restrictions. One personal item is always free, carry-on is limited, and checked bags are treated as “excess” baggage with fees. Rules are consistent across all routes, though enforcement can vary slightly at different airports.

Personal Item Allowance – What You Can Bring for Free

Every passenger receives one personal item at no extra charge. This can be a purse, small backpack, laptop bag, briefcase, or similar item that fits comfortably under the seat in front of you.

Maximum dimensions for the personal item are 18 x 14 x 8 inches (46 x 36 x 20 cm). There is no strict weight limit listed, but the item must be light enough for the passenger to lift and stow independently.

This personal item is the only baggage guaranteed to stay with you in the cabin on every flight. Larger bags or those that don’t fit under the seat may be gate-checked or counted as carry-on (subject to availability and fees).

Carry-On Baggage Rules

Boutique Air allows one carry-on bag in addition to the personal item, but only when space is available. The maximum dimensions are 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels – the same standard used by most U.S. airlines.

Because the Pilatus PC-12 and Caravan have very small cabins and limited overhead bin space, carry-on bags are frequently gate-checked, even when they meet size requirements. Gate-checking is free if the airline requests it due to space constraints. If the bag is oversized or the passenger insists on bringing it onboard when space is unavailable, it may be denied or incur a fee.

There is no published weight limit for carry-on bags, but they must be manageable by the passenger. Liquids follow the standard TSA 3-1-1 rule for carry-on items.

Checked Baggage Allowance and Fees

Unlike many regional carriers, Boutique Air does not include a free checked bag on most fares. All checked baggage is considered “excess” and carries a flat fee of $30 per bag (as of early 2026).

Maximum weight per checked bag is 50 pounds (23 kg). Maximum dimensions are 62 linear inches (length + width + height, including handles and wheels). Bags exceeding these limits may be accepted with additional fees ($50–$100 depending on how much they exceed) or refused if they cannot be safely loaded.

Prepaying checked bags online during booking or through the “Manage Booking” section is recommended – it’s usually the same price but saves time at the airport. Bags can also be added at check-in counters.

Excess and Overweight/Oversize Fees

Additional checked bags beyond the first one cost $30 each. There is no official limit on the number of bags, but space and weight restrictions on small aircraft mean that more than 2–3 bags per passenger may not be accepted on a single flight.

Overweight bags (51–70 pounds) incur an additional $50 fee per bag. Bags over 70 pounds are typically not accepted.

Oversized bags (63–80 linear inches) cost an extra $75 per bag. Anything larger than 80 linear inches is generally refused unless special arrangements are made in advance.

These fees are non-refundable and apply each way.

Gate-Checking and Aircraft Limitations

The small size of Boutique Air’s aircraft makes gate-checking common, even for standard carry-on bags. When the airline gate-checks a bag due to lack of cabin space, there is no fee. The bag is returned planeside upon arrival.

Passengers should remove valuables, medications, electronics, and anything fragile or essential from bags that might be gate-checked. Gate-checking is usually quick, but delays can occur at smaller airports with limited ground staff.

Families with strollers or car seats should prepare for gate-checking these items – they are accepted free of charge and returned at the arrival gate.

Special Items: Sports Equipment, Musical Instruments, and Pets

Sports equipment (golf clubs, skis, fishing rods, etc.) is accepted as checked baggage and subject to the $30 excess baggage fee if it exceeds carry-on limits. Oversized or overweight equipment incurs additional charges.

Musical instruments that fit within carry-on dimensions can travel in the cabin if space allows; otherwise, they are gate-checked or checked with fees. Larger instruments may require purchasing an extra seat.

Small pets in approved carriers are allowed in the cabin for a $99 fee each way (subject to availability – only a few carriers fit per flight). Larger pets travel as cargo through partner arrangements – contact reservations in advance.

Baggage for Infants, Children, and Families

Children over two years old receive the same baggage allowance as adults. Infants under two (lap children) do not get a free checked bag, but a stroller and car seat can be gate-checked free of charge.

Families traveling with young children should pack efficiently – the $30 checked bag fee can add up quickly on group tickets. Gate-checking strollers and car seats is standard practice.

Practical Tips for Avoiding Baggage Fees and Hassles

Pack light whenever possible – many passengers on Boutique Air routes manage with just a personal item and a small carry-on.

Measure bags before arriving at the airport – even a few extra inches can trigger gate-checking or fees.

Prepay checked bags online if known – it’s faster at check-in and guarantees space.

Keep valuables in your personal item – gate-checking is common, and small items can get misplaced.

Arrive early at smaller airports – ground handling staff are limited, and lines can form quickly during boarding.

How Generous Is the Boutique Air Baggage Policy?

Compared to major airlines, Boutique Air’s policy is restrictive – no free checked bag and frequent gate-checking due to aircraft size. However, the $30 flat fee for checked bags is lower than many regional and low-cost carriers. The generous personal item allowance and free gate-checking when space is the issue help offset the limitations.

The policy suits short regional trips where most passengers travel light. Those needing multiple bags or heavy equipment should plan for fees and possible space restrictions.

Always check boutiqueair.com for the latest details before travel – fees and rules can change, and some routes may have special considerations. Pack smart, travel light, and the journey stays simple and affordable.