Lufthansa strips free carry-on April 28

Lufthansa Group started selling a new Economy Basic fare on April 28 that drops the standard free carry-on bag on select short- and medium-haul European flights. (lufthansagroup.com) The new fare applies across Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Discover Airlines, Lufthansa City Airlines and Air Dolomiti, with travel starting May 19. (lufthansagroup.com) Instead of a normal cabin bag, Economy Basic includes one personal item measuring up to 40x30x15 centimeters. Lufthansa’s carry-on page lists zero standard cabin bags for that fare. (lufthansa.com) A regular carry-on bag can still be bought as an add-on, and Reuters reported the extra charge starts at 15 euros. Lufthansa said the fare is aimed at travelers who want a lower entry price. (reuters.com) (lufthansagroup.com) Lufthansa is also changing the fare ladder around it. The existing Economy Light fare keeps one 8-kilogram carry-on bag and gains a paid rebooking option. (lufthansa.com) (lufthansagroup.com) The airline group says the rollout is gradual and limited to selected routes sold through its websites and New Distribution Capability channels, the direct booking systems airlines use with travel sellers. (lufthansagroup.com) Status still matters under the new rules. Lufthansa says Miles & More Senator and HON Circle members, along with Star Alliance Gold travelers, can still bring one cabin bag free on Economy Basic. (lufthansa.com) Reuters said Lufthansa framed the move as part of pressure from rising jet-fuel costs, while the new fare also brings the group closer to the à-la-carte model long used by Europe’s low-cost carriers. (reuters.com) (lufthansagroup.com) For passengers booking Europe trips now, the practical change is simple: on some Lufthansa Group tickets bought from April 28, a wheelie carry-on is no longer included in the base fare. (lufthansagroup.com)