What Are Cape Air Baggage Fees and How to Add Baggage?
When you're planning a trip with Cape Air, the last thing you want is to be caught off guard by baggage fees. With small regional planes and specific weight limitations, Cape Air's baggage policies are different from what you may be used to on larger commercial airlines. Knowing the
Cape Air baggage fees ahead of time—and how to add baggage to your booking—can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
Whether you're island-hopping in New England or connecting through one of Cape Air’s many U.S. hubs, this guide covers everything you need to know about baggage costs, rules, and tips. For direct assistance or to add baggage over the phone, you can always call
Cape Air at (844) 734-0813.
Understanding Cape Air’s Baggage Policy
Cape Air operates a fleet of small aircraft like the Cessna 402 and Tecnam P2012 Traveller. These planes have limited storage space, which makes their baggage policy more restrictive than many major airlines. This also means they strictly enforce size and weight rules.
According to Cape Air’s
official policy, here’s a breakdown of what passengers can expect:
1. Free Carry-On and Personal Item
Every Cape Air passenger is allowed:
- One personal item (like a purse, small backpack, or laptop case)
- One carry-on item, not exceeding 45 linear inches
However, due to tight cabin space, carry-ons are often gate-checked and returned after landing. So while technically allowed, you won’t always have access to your carry-on during the flight.
2. Cape Air Checked Baggage Fees
If you're checking a bag, here’s what it will cost:
- 1st checked bag: $30
- 2nd checked bag: $40
- 3rd checked bag: $80
Each checked bag must:
- Weigh no more than 50 lbs
- Not exceed 62 linear inches (L+W+H)
If you’re unsure about baggage allowances or want to confirm baggage pricing, Cape Air’s customer support is a great resource. Call
(844) 734-0813 to get accurate, route-specific information.
3. Overweight and Oversized Baggage
Cape Air charges extra for overweight bags:
- 51–70 lbs: $80 additional fee
- Over 70 lbs: Not accepted
- Oversized bags (over 62 linear inches) are also not permitted
These limits are based on the aircraft’s capacity, not just airline policy, so staff are strict about enforcement.
4. Free Baggage Routes
Good news: some routes include
one free checked bag, specifically when:
- Cape Air is the sole operating carrier, and
- The route includes select cities like Boston (BOS), St. Louis (STL), and Hyannis (HYA)
Check your itinerary or ask a Cape Air agent to confirm if your route qualifies for free baggage.
5. Military and Special Items
Cape Air offers some
generous baggage exemptions, including:
- Active duty military personnel (with ID) can check bags for free
- Strollers, wheelchairs, car seats, walkers, and medical assistive devices are exempt from fees
- Pets (under certain conditions) can fly in cabin or as cargo—more on that in another guide
How to Add Baggage on Cape Air
1. Add Online (Manage My Booking)
For some bookings, you can manage your reservation and prepay baggage through Cape Air’s
Manage Flights portal. Not all bookings allow this (especially if booked through third parties or travel agents).
2. Add via Phone (Best for Accuracy)
Calling Cape Air is often the best way to:
- Add or modify baggage
- Confirm weight limits or special requests
- Check if your route includes free baggage
Speak with a real agent by dialing
(844) 734-0813. They’ll guide you through your options and help you prepay if needed.
3. Add at the Airport
You can pay for baggage during check-in at the airport. However, keep in mind that additional or overweight baggage is
subject to space availability, so it’s not guaranteed. It’s always safer to call ahead.
What Happens to Lost or Damaged Bags?
Cape Air follows standard liability guidelines:
- Up to $500 compensation for flights operated solely by Cape Air
- Up to $3,400 if your itinerary includes another major airline (under U.S. DOT regulations)
Always
report damage or loss immediately at the airport. You can also follow up using Cape Air’s online
baggage support form.
Cape Air Baggage FAQs
1. How many bags can I check on Cape Air?
You can check up to
three bags, though the
first two are the most common. Third bags may be declined based on space.
2. What happens if my bag is overweight?
You’ll pay an extra
$80 for any bag between 51 and 70 lbs. Bags
over 70 lbs won’t be accepted at all.
3. Can I bring a musical instrument or sports gear?
Yes, but only
if it fits the size/weight limits. Larger instruments or sporting goods like skis may not be accepted due to aircraft constraints.
4. Can I prepay for baggage online?
In some cases, yes—check the
“Manage My Booking” section on the Cape Air website. Otherwise,
call (844) 734-0813 to handle it.
5. Do I get a free bag on interline or codeshare flights?
When flying Cape Air
in connection with a larger airline (like JetBlue, American, or United), their
baggage policy usually applies. Always check with the operating airline or by calling
(844) 734-0813.
6. What are the rules for traveling with pets and their baggage?
Cape Air allows
in-cabin pets on some routes, and
checked pets on others. Space and temperature restrictions apply, so it’s best to book early and confirm by phone.
Tips to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees
- Weigh your bags at home to avoid surprises
- Use soft-sided duffels—easier to fit into tight cargo holds
- Travel light if flying to/from smaller regional airports
- Always call ahead to confirm any exemptions or special baggage (medical, musical, oversized)
Final Thoughts – Plan Ahead and Fly Stress-Free
Cape Air’s baggage policies reflect its unique operational needs: small aircraft, tight cargo holds, and often remote destinations. But with a little planning, you can avoid extra costs and enjoy a smooth journey.
Here’s a quick recap:
- $30 for first checked bag, $40 for second
- Call (844) 734-0813 to add or modify baggage
- Carry-ons are limited and often gate-checked
- Free bags apply on some routes and for military personnel
- Overweight/oversized items may be rejected
If you're ever unsure about your flight’s baggage details, don’t guess—get clarity directly from the source. Cape Air's team is available at
(844) 734-0813 to help you travel smarter
