Air North, Yukon's Airline, connects major hubs in southern Canada with communities across the Yukon and Northwest Territories. Understanding the official Air North baggage policy helps you plan your luggage allowance, avoid excess fees, and navigate regional aircraft limitations across both jet and turboprop flights.
Air North standard published fares (such as GoYukon and Optimum) include 2 free checked bags up to 50 lbs (23 kg) and 62 linear inches (158 cm) each. Passengers may bring 1 standard carry-on bag (max 22 lbs / 10 kg; 21.5 x 15 x 10 in / 55 x 38 x 25 cm) plus 1 personal item (16 x 13 x 6 in / 41 x 33 x 15 cm). Extra or overweight bags incur fees in Canadian Dollars (CAD), and regional turboprop flights enforce stricter overhead bin limits.
Baggage Allowance Snapshot
Air North offers two free checked bags on most standard tickets, alongside a generous cabin allowance. Specific allowances depend on your ticket class and the aircraft type operating your route.
What can change: Promotional or "Light" seat sale fares may reduce free checked baggage limits to 0 or 1 bag. Regional turboprop routes may require carry-on gate-checking.
Baggage Size Visual
Use the airline's stated order of dimensions. Measurements may include wheels and handles only when the official source says so.
Personal Item
Published limit: 16 x 13 x 6 in (41 x 33 x 15 cm)
Must fit under seat in front
Standard Carry-On Bag
Published limit: 21.5 x 15 x 10 in | 22 lbs (10 kg)
Fits in overhead bin on 737 jets
Standard Checked Suitcase
Published limit: 62 linear in | 50 lbs (23 kg)
2 bags included on standard fares
Visual guide - not to scale. Use the published numerical limit as the controlling rule.
Official Source Verification
Baggage rules can vary by fare, cabin, route, operating carrier, traveler status, and purchase channel. BaggageBase separates published rules from practical guidance.
How BaggageBase Checks This Information
BaggageBase cross-references official airline tariffs, route network operational manuals, and airport check-in guidelines to build these policy guides. All fee structures are regularly confirmed against public airline releases, tariff filings, and passenger rights documentations.
Because baggage rules can change based on equipment swaps or promotional ticket sales, we explicitly list the scope, applicable aircraft types, and currency for every rule. Fees are stated in Canadian Dollars (CAD) and are subject to Canadian Goods and Services Tax (GST) or Harmonized Sales Tax (HST) based on the point of departure.
Air North Personal Item & Carry-On Size Limits
Every ticketed passenger on Air North is permitted one personal item and one standard carry-on piece at no additional charge. Both items must fall within official dimension and weight constraints to be carried into the passenger cabin.
Personal Item Rules
Your personal item must fit completely beneath the seat in front of you. Official Air North guidelines state that personal items may not exceed 16 x 13 x 6 inches (41 x 33 x 15 cm).
Examples of approved personal items include:
- A small handbag or purse
- A slim briefcase or laptop bag
- A small daypack or diaper bag
To see how these sub-seat dimensions match up against other carriers in North America, consult our airline personal item size comparison guide.
Standard Carry-On Suitcase Rules
Air North permits one piece of standard carry-on luggage with maximum dimensions of 21.5 x 15 x 10 inches (55 x 38 x 25 cm). Unlike many major airlines that do not strictly enforce cabin weight limits, Air North caps carry-on bags at 22 lbs (10 kg).
Air North's official tariff documentation does not explicitly confirm whether the 21.5-inch length includes wheels and handles. To avoid complications at the gate, select luggage where total external measurements-including handles, pockets, and wheels-stay within the published 21.5-inch cap. You can compare these limits against other North American operators in our airline carry-on size comparison page.
| Baggage Item | Max Size (Imperial) | Max Size (Metric) | Weight Limit | Fit Requirement / Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Personal Item | 16 x 13 x 6 in | 41 x 33 x 15 cm | Unspecified (must carry easily) | Must fit under seat in front; Free |
| Standard Carry-On | 21.5 x 15 x 10 in | 55 x 38 x 25 cm | 22 lbs (10 kg) | Must fit in overhead bin; Free |
Aircraft Overhead Bin Limits: Boeing 737 Jets vs. Regional Turboprops
Air North operates a dual-fleet network consisting of mainline Boeing 737 jet aircraft and regional turboprop aircraft such as the ATR 42 or Hawker Siddeley. Overhead storage capacity varies significantly depending on which aircraft operates your flight segment.
Boeing 737 Trunk Routes
Air North uses Boeing 737 jets on its high-density routes connecting Whitehorse with southern gateways like Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Kelowna, Victoria, Ottawa, and Toronto. On these jet flights, the overhead bins accommodate standard 21.5-inch carry-on rolling suitcases without issue.
ATR 42 & Turboprop Regional Routes
Regional flights connecting northern communities like Dawson City, Old Crow, Inuvik, and Mayo rely on turboprop aircraft. The overhead compartments on these smaller aircraft are substantially tighter than those on a Boeing 737.
When traveling on turboprop aircraft:
- Standard carry-on rolling suitcases will not fit in the overhead bins.
- Air North uses a mandatory gate-check (valet drop-off) procedure at the aircraft door.
- Ground crew place gate-checked carry-on bags into the cargo hold at no additional charge.
- Your bag is returned to you at the aircraft steps or in the terminal immediately upon arrival.
If your itinerary includes a regional turboprop leg, keep essential items-such as prescriptions, keys, identification, valuable electronics, and winter parkas-in your personal item so they stay with you in the cabin.
Air North Checked Baggage Rules, Fares, and Fees
Air North stands out in the aviation industry by maintaining a highly generous checked baggage policy across its core ticket categories.
Free Baggage Allowance by Fare Tier
On standard published fare tiers-including GoYukon, Optimum, and Advantage fares-Air North grants 2 free checked bags per ticketed passenger. This makes Air North one of the few airlines in North America to include two checked pieces in standard economy pricing.
However, discounted seat sales or promotional "Light" fare categories may restrict this allowance to 1 free checked bag or 0 free bags. Always check your specific booking confirmation to confirm your exact tier benefits before arriving at the airport.
Standard Checked Weight & Size Thresholds
Each standard checked bag included in your allowance must meet two main criteria:
- Maximum Weight: 50 lbs (23 kg) per bag.
- Maximum Linear Dimensions: 62 linear inches (158 cm), calculated by adding Length + Width + Height together.
Additional Bag Fees (3rd Bag and Beyond)
If you need to travel with a 3rd checked bag or additional luggage beyond your fare allowance, extra pieces are accepted on a space-available standby basis.
- 3rd Checked Bag Fee: Approximately $75.00 – $100.00 CAD + tax per bag, each way.
- Space-Available Condition: On flights operating near total payload limits, excess bags may be held and dispatched on the next available flight.
If you are trying to decide whether to pay for a third bag or streamline your gear into carry-on luggage, review our breakdown on checked bag vs carry-on packing trade-offs.
| Fare Category / Traveler Type | Included Free Checked Bags | Max Weight per Free Bag | Max Linear Size per Free Bag | Fee for Extra Bags (3rd+) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GoYukon & Optimum Fares | 2 Bags Free | 50 lbs (23 kg) | 62 linear in (158 cm) | ~$75.00 – $100.00 CAD + tax |
| Light / Promotional Fares | 0 to 1 Bag Free | 50 lbs (23 kg) | 62 linear in (158 cm) | ~$75.00 – $100.00 CAD + tax |
| Infant (Lap Child) | 0 Standard Bags | N/A | N/A | Up to 2 pieces of infant gear checked free |
Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees and Limits
Checked bags that exceed standard weight or physical measurement thresholds incur excess fees at airport check-in counters.
Overweight Baggage Tiers
Any checked suitcase weighing between 51 lbs (23 kg) and 70 lbs (32 kg) is classified as overweight.
- Overweight Charge: Approximately $35.00 – $50.00 CAD + tax per bag, charged per direction.
- This fee is assessed in addition to any base fee if the bag is also an extra piece (e.g., a 3rd bag that is overweight).
Oversized Baggage Tiers
Baggage measuring between 63 linear inches (158 cm) and 115 linear inches (292 cm) is classified as oversized.
- Oversized Charge: Approximately $35.00 – $50.00 CAD + tax per bag, charged per direction.
Absolute Maximum Weight & Size Limits (The 70 lb Cutoff)
Air North enforces strict safety limits for passenger checked baggage at airport ticket counters:
- Absolute Weight Cap: 70 lbs (32 kg).
- Absolute Size Cap: 115 linear inches (292 cm).
Airport check-in agents will refuse to accept any individual suitcase or piece of baggage weighing over 70 lbs (32 kg). This limit protects airport ramp personnel from injury. Any piece exceeding 70 lbs or 115 linear inches cannot travel as checked passenger baggage and must be tendered through Air North Cargo under separate commercial cargo rates and procedures.
| Excess Category | Condition / Measurement | Fee (CAD) | Acceptance Action / Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Overweight Bag | 51 – 70 lbs (23 – 32 kg) | ~$35.00 – $50.00 CAD + tax | Accepted as checked baggage |
| Oversized Bag | 63 – 115 linear in (158 – 292 cm) | ~$35.00 – $50.00 CAD + tax | Accepted as checked baggage |
| Heavy Over-Limit | Exceeds 70 lbs (32 kg) | Refused at check-in | Must be shipped via Air North Cargo |
| Size Over-Limit | Exceeds 115 linear in (292 cm) | Refused at check-in | Must be shipped via Air North Cargo |
Special Gear: Hockey Equipment, Hunting Gear, Infants, and Pets
Operating in northern regions means Air North frequently handles specialized sports equipment, wilderness tools, and cold-weather gear.
Infant & Child Equipment Allowance
Passengers traveling with infants or young children are entitled to special equipment exceptions:
- Free Equipment Allowance: Up to 2 items of child gear (such as a stroller, car seat, or playpen) can be checked free of charge.
- In-Cabin Car Seats: Transport Canada-approved car seats may be brought into the aircraft cabin if an adjacent seat has been purchased for the child.
Mobility Aids and Medical Equipment
Wheelchairs, mobility scooters, walkers, and medical equipment are checked free of charge. These items do not count against your standard fare baggage allowance and are prioritized for loading.
Sporting Equipment & Northern Gear
Air North accommodates common northern sporting gear as standard checked items:
- Hockey Gear, Skis, & Snowboards: Hockey bags, ski bags, and snowboard equipment count as standard checked pieces. As long as the gear bag stays under 50 lbs (23 kg), it is included in your standard 2-bag allowance on regular fares without special equipment surcharges.
- Fishing Equipment & Coolers: Fishing rod cases and coolers count as standard checked items subject to standard weight limits. Coolers must be leak-proof and securely strapped.
- Hunting Equipment & Firearms: Firearms are permitted strictly as checked baggage in compliance with Transport Canada rules. Firearms must be completely unloaded, encased in a locked hard-sided container, and declared at check-in with appropriate permits. Ammunition must be securely packaged and is restricted by weight.
Pets in Cabin & Checked Pets
Air North accepts domestic pets under designated travel conditions:
- Pets in Cabin: Small dogs and cats are permitted in the cabin inside an approved soft-sided carrier that fits under the seat. The fee is approximately $50.00 – $75.00 CAD + tax each way. In-cabin pet reservations must be made in advance as space per flight is strictly capped.
- Checked Pets (Cargo Hold): Animals exceeding cabin size limits travel in the climate-controlled cargo hold inside hard-sided crates. Pet carriage in cargo holds is subject to seasonal temperature restrictions in northern destinations during periods of extreme cold.
Handling Over-Limit Baggage at the Check-In Counter
If your bag exceeds weight or dimension limits when weighed on the airport scale, check-in agents offer a few clear options.
Airport Check-In Counter Scenarios
If a single bag weighs 56 lbs on the check-in scale, agents will offer you the opportunity to repack before processing the bag. Because standard fares include 2 free checked bags, travelers can easily move heavy winter boots, coats, or gear from one over-limit suitcase into a second checked bag to keep both pieces under 50 lbs (23 kg) and avoid the $35–$50 CAD overweight fee.
If an individual item weighs over 70 lbs (32 kg), agents cannot process it at the passenger desk. You will be directed to the local Air North Cargo office, where the item will be weighed, air waybilled, and charged at freight rates.
Northern Payload & Weather Delays
Flight operations in the Yukon and Northwest Territories are subject to extreme weather, severe headwinds, and strict aircraft takeoff weight limits. During extreme winter cold, aircraft fuel requirements increase, which can force payload restrictions.
In rare cases where an aircraft reaches maximum takeoff weight, standby items-such as 3rd extra checked bags or heavy cargo items-may be held at the departure airport and flown on the next available flight.
Air North Pre-Airport Baggage Checklist
Follow these practical steps before heading to the airport to ensure your baggage complies with Air North rules.
- Measure your carry-on luggage. Ensure your main carry-on fits within 21.5 x 15 x 10 inches (55 x 38 x 25 cm) and does not exceed 22 lbs (10 kg).
- Weigh winter and hockey gear at home. Heavy winter outerwear, boots, and sports equipment easily breach the 50 lb (23 kg) limit per checked bag.
- Split weight across two suitcases. Take advantage of Air North’s 2-free-bag allowance on standard fares instead of packing one heavy bag over 50 lbs.
- Pack cold gear in your personal item on turboprop routes. Carry-on suitcases on ATR 42 flights to Dawson City or Inuvik may be gate-checked, so keep warm clothing on hand.
- Check airport baggage drop cutoffs. Arrive early enough to drop bags before check-in closes: 60 minutes prior at jet hubs (Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, Toronto) and 45 minutes prior at regional northern hubs.
- Keep items under 70 lbs (32 kg). Passenger check-in desks will refuse bags over 70 lbs, which must be redirected to Air North Cargo.
Air North Baggage Policy Frequently Asked Questions
How many checked bags do you get for free on Air North?
Most standard published Air North fares (including GoYukon, Optimum, and Advantage fares) include 2 free checked bags per ticketed passenger. Discounted seat sales or promotional "Light" fare categories may restrict this allowance to 0 or 1 free checked bag, so travelers should review their ticket terms.
What are the maximum size and weight limits for Air North carry-on bags?
Air North allows 1 standard carry-on bag measuring up to 21.5 x 15 x 10 inches (55 x 38 x 25 cm) with a maximum weight of 22 lbs (10 kg). Passengers may also bring 1 small personal item measuring up to 16 x 13 x 6 inches (41 x 33 x 15 cm) that fits under the seat in front.
What is the fee if my checked bag is overweight on Air North?
Checked bags weighing between 51 and 70 lbs (23 and 32 kg) incur an overweight fee of approximately $35.00 – $50.00 CAD + applicable Canadian taxes each way. This fee applies per overweight piece.
Will my standard carry-on suitcase fit in the overhead bin on regional flights?
On Boeing 737 jet flights, standard carry-on suitcases fit into the overhead bins. On regional turboprop aircraft serving smaller northern routes, overhead bins are significantly smaller, and standard rolling carry-ons must be gate-checked at the aircraft door.
Can I check hockey equipment or skis on Air North?
Yes, hockey gear, skis, snowboards, and fishing equipment count as standard checked baggage pieces. As long as the equipment bag weighs 50 lbs (23 kg) or less, it counts toward your standard free checked baggage allowance on regular fares without extra charges.
What is the absolute maximum weight Air North will allow for a checked bag?
Air North strictly caps checked passenger baggage at 70 lbs (32 kg) per piece. Check-in desks will refuse any suitcase or item weighing over 70 lbs, requiring it to be booked and shipped separately through Air North Cargo.
Does Air North charge to check strollers and car seats for children?
No, Air North allows passengers traveling with infants or young children to check up to 2 items of child equipment (such as a stroller, car seat, or playpen) free of charge. These items do not count toward your ticket's standard checked bag allowance.
How early do I need to check my bags with Air North before my flight?
Baggage drop and check-in close 60 minutes prior to departure at southern jet hubs (Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, Toronto) and 45 minutes prior to departure at northern regional airports (Whitehorse, Dawson City, Inuvik, Old Crow).
Summary and Key Recommendations
Air North provides exceptional value for travelers by offering two free checked bags up to 50 lbs (23 kg) each on most standard published fares. When preparing for your flight, confirm whether your ticket tier falls under a standard fare or a promotional "Light" class, and ensure each suitcase remains under the 62 linear inch size cap.
If you are flying on regional turboprop aircraft into remote northern destinations, pack vital cold-weather clothing and electronics into your personal item, as larger carry-on suitcases will be gate-checked. Finally, remember that passenger check-in desks will not accept bags exceeding 70 lbs (32 kg), which must be handled via cargo.
Airline baggage rules and fees can change by route, fare, cabin, operating carrier, traveler status, purchase channel, and departure date. Check the airline's official baggage policy or calculator before booking, paying, or traveling. BaggageBase reviews information for 2026 where possible, but the airline's published terms remain the final authority.
