With the rapid rise in air travel and growing awareness among consumers about product quality and safety, regulatory compliance has become a necessity for travel product manufacturers. Air travel bags such as suitcases, trolley bags, and cabin luggage are exposed to frequent handling, rough loading conditions, and long journeys. To ensure these products meet required safety, durability, and performance benchmarks, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has made certification mandatory for air travel bags under Indian Standard IS 8517.
This certification ensures that only quality-compliant travel bags are manufactured, imported, and sold in the Indian market.
What is IS 8517?
IS 8517 is the Indian Standard that defines the quality and performance requirements for air travel bags. It covers key aspects such as materials used, workmanship, construction, durability, and functional performance. The standard is designed to ensure that travel bags can withstand rough handling during air transportation while offering strength, reliability, and safety to users.
By complying with IS 8517, manufacturers maintain uniform product quality and protect consumers from inferior or unsafe luggage products.
Legal Importance of BIS Certification for Air Travel Bags
BIS Certification for air travel bags is a mandatory legal requirement in India under IS 8517 and applicable Quality Control Orders (QCOs) issued by the Government of India. Manufacturers and importers must obtain this certification before placing their products in the market.
Selling or importing uncertified air travel bags is considered a violation of the BIS Act, 2016, and can result in serious legal consequences.
Key Legal Highlights:
- Mandatory certification under IS 8517
- Required for manufacturing, importing, selling, and distribution
- Non-compliance attracts penalties under the BIS Act, 2016
- Risk of product seizure and legal prosecution
- Customs authorities may detain or reject uncertified imports
- Ensures lawful market access and regulatory protection
Testing Requirements under IS 8517
To qualify for BIS certification, air travel bags must be tested at a BIS-recognized laboratory. These tests verify whether the product meets the prescribed quality and durability standards.
Key testing parameters include:
- Material strength and durability testing
- Drop and impact resistance tests
- Handle and strap strength tests
- Wheel and trolley mechanism performance evaluation
- Inspection of workmanship and overall finish
Only products that successfully pass all applicable tests are approved for certification under IS 8517.
ISI Mark Certification Process for Air Travel Bags
BIS certification for air travel bags is granted under the ISI Mark Scheme and involves a structured evaluation process:
- Application Submission – Filing the application through the BIS online portal
- Document Verification – Review of factory details, quality control plans, and test reports
- Product Testing – Sample testing at BIS-approved laboratories as per IS 8517
- Factory Inspection – On-site inspection by BIS officials to assess manufacturing and quality controls
- Grant of License – Issuance of ISI license after successful compliance
- Marking & Surveillance – Authorization to use the ISI Mark with ongoing surveillance and compliance checks
Documents Required for BIS Certification
The following documents are typically required:
- Manufacturing unit registration and legal documents
- Factory layout and machinery details
- Quality control and in-house testing information
- Raw material specifications
- Product test reports from BIS-recognized laboratories
- Authorization letters and undertakings
Foreign manufacturers must additionally appoint an Authorized Indian Representative (AIR) to coordinate with BIS.
Validity and Renewal of BIS License
The BIS license for air travel bags is usually issued for one to two years. It can be renewed by demonstrating continued compliance with IS 8517, including regular testing and factory surveillance.
Support Services Offered by BIS Consultants and Agents
Due to technical requirements and regulatory procedures, many businesses rely on professional assistance to streamline the certification process:
- BIS Consultant for Air Travel Bags – Handles documentation, testing coordination, and compliance support
- ISI Consultant for Air Travel Bags – Assists in obtaining and maintaining the ISI Mark
- BIS Agent for Air Travel Bags – Manages application filing, communication with BIS, and renewals
- BIS QCO Compliance Support – Ensures adherence to Quality Control Order requirements
These services help businesses avoid delays, minimize errors, and achieve faster approvals.
Legal and Commercial Benefits for Manufacturers
- Ensures mandatory compliance with IS 8517 and BIS Quality Control Orders
- Protects against penalties, fines, and legal action
- Builds brand credibility and consumer trust
- Enables participation in government tenders and organized retail markets
- Supports smooth operations and long-term business growth
Conclusion
BIS Certification for Air Travel Bags as per IS 8517 is essential for ensuring legal compliance, product reliability, and consumer safety in India. It not only protects manufacturers from regulatory risks but also enhances brand reputation and market acceptance. With proper certification and expert guidance, businesses can meet statutory requirements, gain customer trust, and achieve sustainable growth in the competitive travel accessories market.
