Airline Guide

Airline Departure FAQs

Getting ready to fly overseas? We've got the answers to some of your most frequently asked airline departure questions. For more information or to book your flights, contact one of our travel specialists on 133 133 today and don’t forget to ask about our great deals on hotels, tours, travel insurance, transfers and more.

What travel documents do I need for international travel?

All international travel requires you to have a passport. Some countries also require a minimum validity and/or an entry visa on the passport. Visa restrictions can differ from passport to passport so make sure you allow plenty of time to obtain the correct documentation. Check with your Flight Centre consultant when booking your flight as some airlines will deny boarding if the right documents are not presented.

What is my baggage allowance?

There are two aspects to baggage allowance – hand luggage and checked baggage. Hand luggage restrictions for Economy Class passengers range from 5kg up to 12kg per person. The checked baggage allowance for Economy Class on international flights can range from 20kg to 60kg. Travellers in First and Business Class have a more generous baggage allowance which can include up to 15kg hand luggage and 90kg checked baggage. A piece system also applies to certain airlines and destinations. For specific baggage allowances please refer to our international airline guide.

Any excess baggage or additional pieces can be organised prior to travel or at the airport check-in desk. Sporting equipment, musical instruments and pets can also be organised prior to travel on most airlines. Extra fees or charges may apply.

Are there any restrictions to what items can be carried in checked and hand baggage?

Generally, items that are classified as dangerous goods (i.e. may endanger the safety of an aircraft and the passengers onboard) are not permitted in your baggage. Other items such as liquids, aerosols and gels are also not permitted in the aircraft cabin. The Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority has guidelines and regulations pertaining to the carriage of dangerous goods, so if in doubt please check before you travel.

Do I need to declare anything?

On arrival you will be required to declare goods that are considered a threat to that country. There are large fines in place for failing to declare restricted or prohibited goods, so declare it if you are unsure. Duty free allowances vary from country to country so please check these prior to departure or at the duty free shop before your purchase.

Paper ticket or e-ticket?

Most modern airlines now offer e-tickets but it is important to check with your Flight Centre consultant at the time of your booking. While an e-ticket means that you no longer have to have a ticket with you, it is important that you carry a copy of your e-ticket receipt as proof of travel for immigration purposes in other countries.

When do I have to pay for my tickets?

Once your travel consultant has made your booking for the dates of your choice, the airlines will add a ticketing time limit to the booking. Your booking must be paid for and ticketed prior to this deadline. Ticketing timelines will vary depending on the fare type and airline. As these times are automated through the booking system, any un-ticketed bookings will be automatically cancelled by the airline's reservation system.

Are there fees and charges for amendments to bookings?

Depending on the restrictions of the fare, airlines may allow changes to your fare. However, this is not as straightforward as revalidating a ticket. Penalties can be imposed for a variety of reasons including changing the name on a ticket, the destination, the date of travel or choice of airline. Some airlines will not reissue a ticket; instead they require a refund of the original ticket and for a new ticket to be issued.

Will I get a refund if I cancel a ticket?

Ticket refund policies are also determined by the rules of the fare. Most restrictive fares are either non-refundable or have a large cancellation penalty. For partially used tickets, airlines have to assess the value of the remaining sectors and may apply a cancellation penalty as well, which could result in a nil payout. However, airlines may give some consideration for special circumstances. When booking, always ask your Flight Centre consultant about the airline’s refund policy.

What type of in flight entertainment can I expect?

Airlines are making significant advances in improving the quality and quantity of entertainment available onboard their flights. Most premium airlines now offer personal TV screens that have various Audio Video On Demand Systems. These systems allow passengers to choose from a wide range of entertainment including movies, TV programs, music and games. Other forms of flight entertainment include shared TV screens, audio channels and reading materials. For entertainment details on specific airlines please refer to our international airline guide