Lufthansa Expands Basic Economy Fare Across Europe, Charging for Carry-On Bags

The Lufthansa Group is significantly expanding its Economy Basic fare, making it available on nearly all intra-European flights for travel commencing October 27. This change means passengers opting for the cheapest ticket will only be allowed a small personal item, with standard carry-on suitcases now requiring a separate fee. The Basic fare permits only one personal item, measuring up to 40x30x15 cm, such as a laptop bag or small backpack, which must fit under the seat in front. It excludes carry-on suitcases, checked baggage, and advance seat selection. A carry-on bag weighing up to 8 kg and measuring up to 55x40x23 cm can be added for a fee starting at 15 euros, with the actual price varying based on booking time and travel date.

Initially launched as a trial in April on over 300 routes, the Economy Basic fare is now becoming a near-continent-wide offering across seven airlines within the group: Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Air Dolomiti, Discover Airlines, and Lufthansa City Airlines. The group states the aim is to provide clearer pricing tiers, allowing passengers to pay only for services they need. Higher fare classes like Economy Light include a carry-on bag, while Economy Comfort also includes checked baggage. The Basic fare is non-refundable and unchangeable, unlike the Light fare which allows changes for a fee.

This move reflects a broader industry trend where services previously included in standard airline tickets are now being itemized and priced separately. Reuters noted in April that this aligns Lufthansa with models used by other airlines, including some in the US, where basic fares restrict included carry-on baggage. Passengers bringing a carry-on bag not included in their fare to the gate without prior purchase may face significantly higher fees, ranging from 60 to 110 euros, as the luggage will be checked and charged at a much higher rate.

Exceptions exist for certain loyalty program members, including HON Circle and Senator status holders, and Star Alliance Gold members, who may be permitted to bring a carry-on bag even on a Basic fare. The new fare structure also does not apply to connecting flights as part of a single intercontinental ticket. The Lufthansa Group defines its European fare system for short and medium-haul flights within Europe and to some adjacent markets like Turkey, Morocco, and Georgia. Israel is not listed among these destinations, so the change is not automatically applicable to flights to and from Israel.

The expansion comes amid rising costs for the airline group. The CEO, Carsten Spohr, recently indicated that additional jet fuel costs by 2026 are expected to exceed a previous forecast of 1.5 billion euros. Fuel currently constitutes 30-40% of airline expenses, with Lufthansa estimating its total fuel bill for the year at approximately 8.66 billion euros.