SkyWest Airlines Baggage Policy: The Logic You’ll Appreciate

Before traveling with SkyWest Airlines, it is always a great idea to read up about the SkyWest Airlines baggage policy so that you can save time, money, and frustration, especially when you are planning trips to both domestic and international destinations. SkyWest operates its flights through partnerships with United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and Alaska Airlines, yet it has its own requirements presented in terms of baggage size, prohibited weight, and other fees. This guide will tell you the newest, clearly defined rules regarding carry-on and checked baggage, size, weight, and most frequent charges so that you know how to pack and, therefore, not to be surprised when you arrive to the airport.

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SkyWest Airlines Carry-On Policy: What You Can Bring Onboard

SkyWest allows one personal item and one carry-on bag per passenger on most of its flights. However, due to aircraft size (especially on regional jets like CRJ-200 or CRJ-700), carry-on items may be subject to gate check-in.

SkyWest Airlines Carry-On Rules and Dimensions

Here’s a breakdown of the SkyWest Airlines carry-on policy:

• Carry-On Bag

  • Maximum size: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm)

  • Must fit in the overhead bin

  • May include items like small suitcases, backpacks, or duffel bags

• Personal Item

  • Must fit under the seat in front of you

  • Includes purses, laptop bags, or small backpacks

However, many SkyWest-operated flights, especially those on smaller aircraft, do not have space in the cabin for standard-sized carry-ons. In this case, your carry-on will be tagged and gate-checked free of charge, to be picked up plane-side after landing. This is sometimes referred to as “Valet Checked Baggage.”

Tip: Always label your gate-checked items clearly to ensure smooth handling at arrival.

SkyWest Airlines Carry-On Size for International Flights

For international routes operated by SkyWest partners, the SkyWest Airlines carry-on size international policy generally mirrors domestic standards. However, gate-check requirements remain the same on smaller aircraft. If your international trip involves multiple carriers, be sure to review each airline’s cabin baggage restrictions.

Checked Baggage Policy: Fees, Limits, and Weight Restrictions

The SkyWest Airlines checked baggage fees and policies vary slightly depending on which airline you're flying with (Delta, United, American, or Alaska). However, SkyWest maintains standardized checked baggage handling practices for its aircraft types.

SkyWest Airlines Checked Baggage Allowance

• Standard Checked Bag

  • Maximum size: 62 linear inches (length + width + height)

  • Maximum weight: 50 lbs (23 kg) for economy class

• Fees (typical per direction, per bag):

  • 1st bag: $30–$35

  • 2nd bag: $40–$45

  • 3+ bags: $100+

These rates may vary depending on the mainline carrier ticketed, frequent flyer status, or if you booked a basic economy fare. Some elite status passengers or co-branded credit card holders may be eligible for free checked baggage.

Overweight and Oversized Baggage Fees

SkyWest enforces the following charges for baggage that exceeds standard allowances:

• Overweight Bags (51–70 lbs): $100 each

• Overweight Bags (71–100 lbs): $200 each

• Oversized Bags (63–80 linear inches): $100–$150 each

Bags over 100 lbs or 80 inches may not be accepted, especially on regional jets.

Example: If you check in a 65-lb bag measuring 70 linear inches, expect to pay both an overweight and oversized fee, totaling around $200–$250 depending on the airline partner.

SkyWest Airlines Baggage Restrictions: What Not to Pack

SkyWest based its security regulations on the requirements of TSA and FAA, and both do not allow carrying some items in either a carry-on bag or in a checked bag. Typical items that are restricted include:

• Bombs or incendiaries

• Guns (except those that have been declared and packed correctly in baggage that is checked)

• Lithium batteries (will have to abide by watt-hour and number limitations)

• certified Sharp objects (such as knives or scissors) as carry-ons

Musical instruments, medical equipment, and mobility aids should be contacted in advance to the airline in order to facilitate appropriate arrangements.

Tips for Smooth Baggage Handling on SkyWest Flights

SkyWest flights often operate out of smaller regional terminals, which means tighter aircraft cabins and less overhead space. Here's how to make your experience easier:

• Pack your carry-on strategically: Use a soft-sided bag that can compress if gate-checked.

• Label all bags clearly: Especially important for valet checked baggage.

• Arrive early: Baggage issues are easier to solve at the counter than at the gate.

• Verify with your operating carrier: Since SkyWest flights are codeshares, double-check your booking confirmation to follow the correct baggage allowance and fees.

  
  

SkyWest Airlines Baggage Policy for Partner Airlines

If you’re flying on a SkyWest flight operated as:

• United Express → Refer to United’s baggage fees

• Delta Connection → Refer to Delta’s baggage policies

• American Eagle → Check American Airlines baggage terms

• Alaska SkyWest → Follow Alaska’s baggage allowance

SkyWest will process and handle your bags, but the fees and rules apply from your ticketing carrier.

Conclusion: Why SkyWest Airlines Baggage Policy Makes Sense

The SkyWest Airlines baggage policy is modeled on the functional realities of regional flying-smaller aircraft, stuffy cabins and rapid turnarounds. When prior knowledge of the carry-on restrictions, baggage check charges and size restrictions are known, e.g. by checking online, one can make smarter plans and be spared of delays or hidden expenses. Whether you are flying short-distance over the weekend or carrying multiple bags on a long international flight, SkyWest has a baggage solution that simply makes sense, is consistent, predictable and also regional.

Have more questions or need help with baggage policies? Call +1-866-679-5070 now and get personalized travel support.