AbstractA unique characteristic linear dimension (d), defined as the cube root of the specific liquid holdup (hsp) in the packed column, was used to correlate successfully the liquid film mass transfer coefficient kLa for gas absorption‐desorption for sparingly soluble gases in liquids below loading. To produce this simple, dimensionless correlation, kLa data reported in literature were used, covering a wide range of physical properties of liquids, packings and operating conditions. This new approach showed operating holdup as an important factor in gas liquid mass transfe