Virgin Atlantic is to follow British Airways in reducing the total weight of baggage that passengers in its premium classes can check into the hold free of charge. Virgin Atlantic will introduce a new baggage policy from 23 September 2009 across its network that will see the maximum weight of each bag reduced from 32kg to 23kg to be carried free of charge.

Passengers in Premium Economy will still be able to take two bags while those in Upper Class will still be allowed to take three items.

Bags weighing more than 23kg but less than 32kg will attract excess baggage charges of £35 in all classes. Additional bags will be charged at £90 apiece. Bags weighing more than 32kg will have to be sent via freight.

The airline said: “Currently Virgin Atlantic have a number of different polices for both baggage allowances and excess charges. It has become increasingly difficult for our passengers to understand these. The change is being introduced to simplify our existing policies.

This will make it easier for passengers to understand their entitlements as well as understanding what excess charges apply should they go over their free allowance.”