Domestic Flight Booking and Policies

China Eastern Airlines luggage policy: While airlines often allow a small overweight allowance (1-2 kg), the strict limit is 23 kg per checked bag. Overweight items may incur fees or be subject to rejection. To manage excess weight, consider distributing items into hand luggage or a personal shopping bag (tote).

Flight cancellations due to typhoons in Japan are causing significant traveler distress. Airlines and booking platforms are offering rebooking options, but often with substantial additional fees or long delays. This creates a critical issue for travelers whose visas are nearing expiration. It's essential to understand the airline's policy on involuntary changes and to explore all rebooking avenues, including direct contact with the airline, to avoid additional costs and visa overstays.

For China Eastern Airlines baggage exceeding standard dimensions (over 204 cm sum of three dimensions), you need to pay a surcharge for excess baggage. It is advisable to contact the airline in advance to arrange and potentially get a better rate than paying at the airport, where the fee can be around 2000 CNY per segment.

When flying with China Eastern, purchasing extra baggage allowance through the airline in advance is generally more cost-effective than buying it at the airport. Prices can vary, with one instance reporting approximately 12,000 JPY for an additional 23 kg bag. Chinese airlines often allow two checked bags per passenger.

Air China online check-in is generally only available for tickets booked directly through their website. If booked via third-party agents, check-in must be completed at the airport counter. Air China enforces a strict 23 kg weight limit per checked bag, unlike some other airlines that may consider total passenger weight.

Typhoon warnings and subsequent flight cancellations are causing significant disruption for travelers in Japan. Many are scrambling to rebook flights, with some resorting to purchasing new tickets at higher prices to meet visa deadlines. Travelers are advised to monitor weather forecasts, airline notifications, and to proactively contact their airlines or booking agents for rebooking options. Be aware of visa expiration dates and potential overstay penalties. Consider alternative routes or carriers if direct flights are unavailable or canceled.

Flight prices to Japan can fluctuate significantly. While historically round-trip tickets could be found for around 40,000 rubles, current prices are generally higher, often ranging from 50,000 to 55,000 rubles. Some deals, like 38,000 rubles, might appear for connecting flights (e.g., via China). Airlines like Hainan Airlines, China Eastern, and Air China are frequently mentioned. Booking 3-4 months in advance is often recommended, although last-minute deals can sometimes appear about a month before departure.

Flight cancellations between China and Japan have become less frequent. Previously, cancellations were more common, often due to typhoons. Currently, cancellations are rare and primarily attributed to weather conditions. If a flight is canceled, passengers are typically offered rebooking on an alternative flight or a full refund.

Peach Aviation strictly enforces carry-on baggage weight limits. While dimensions may be less scrutinized, exceeding the weight allowance, even slightly, can result in the bag being checked as checked baggage. Ensure your carry-on adheres strictly to the specified weight limit.

For flights to Japan, booking 2-3 months in advance is recommended, potentially even earlier for popular travel periods. Prices can fluctuate significantly, with round-trip tickets from St. Petersburg sometimes found around 56,000-60,000 RUB, but potentially rising to 80,000-90,000 RUB if booked last minute. Business class tickets, even with multiple layovers, can be a good deal if priced around 86,000 RUB. Opting for non-refundable tickets at a good price may be more economical than purchasing fully refundable tickets with the intention of returning them.

Budget flights between Tokyo and Osaka can be significantly cheaper than Shinkansen tickets. However, Shinkansen is often more efficient for travel between city centers, avoiding the time and costs associated with airport transfers, security checks, and boarding procedures.

Flights to Miyako Island (e.g., Osaka-Miyako, Miyako-Tokyo) can range from approximately 19,000 JPY when booked in advance to 40,000 JPY. A 6-day trip is recommended, with 5 full days for exploring. Weather in the region can be very hot, but generally pleasant if free from typhoons and rain. Beaches are a major attraction.

User's flight from Tokyo to Shanghai was delayed due to a typhoon, impacting a short connecting flight from Shanghai to Kazan. Advised to contact the airline, preferably in person at the airport, to rebook for the connecting flight. Also noted that the second flight segment might also be delayed due to weather.