How strict is carry-on baggage control at Istanbul Airport — size, weight, and fees?

Reports suggest Pegasus is usually not overly strict with cabin bags when they are not obviously oversized. However, the fare rules still apply, so a clear size or weight excess may lead to an extra charge.

A drone weighing under 250 g is classified in Turkey under the 'up to 500 g' category. It's recommended to carry such drones in hand luggage rather than checked baggage, to keep control over it and avoid the risk of unexplained confiscation.

On a connecting flight through Istanbul, carry-on baggage was not checked at all. Staff even offered to check the cabin bag for free so passengers wouldn't have to carry it during a city stopover.

Turkish Airlines is reportedly relatively lenient with carry-on baggage: an 8 kg cabin suitcase combined with a roughly 7 kg backpack typically passes without issue, especially if the total weight is not conspicuous.

AJet does check carry-on dimensions at Istanbul. A standard small cabin bag that fits general carry-on norms usually passes without extra charge, but oversized items may be flagged and charged separately.

A slight weight overrun on carry-on luggage (e.g. a small suitcase plus a backpack) at Istanbul IST is often ignored by staff. However, a significant excess can result in a fee or forced check-in of the bag.

Baggage wrapping services are available at Istanbul Airport (IST). Prices vary by suitcase size and can be found at wrapping counters in the departure hall.