Finance
Lufthansa Launches Salvo in Carry-On Bag Size Battle With 'Economy Basic'
Published by Global Banking & Finance Review®
Posted on April 23, 2026
2 min readLast updated: April 23, 2026
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Lufthansa Group is introducing “Economy Basic,” a new ultra‑low‑cost fare effective for bookings from May 19 that restricts carry‑on luggage to just a laptop bag or small backpack—anything larger incurs extra fees. Economy Light will remain available with added rebooking for a charge.
Lufthansa introduces discounted fare in Europe limiting free carry-on bags
Overview of Lufthansa's New "Economy Basic" Fare
By Ludwig Burger
Details of the Fare and Baggage Policy
FRANKFURT, April 23 (Reuters) - Lufthansa Group has unveiled plans for a new "Economy Basic" fare that adds a new variant in Europe to passengers' struggle with size limits on carry-on bags, saying that an item larger than a "laptop bag or a small backpack" would cost extra.
Options for Additional Luggage
"Those who wish to bring more luggage can flexibly add carry-on or checked baggage as an add-on service within this particularly affordable fare or choose a fare option with expanded baggage allowances," the German airline group said on Thursday.
Booking Availability and Timeline
Beginning gradually from April 28, the new low-cost fare can be booked online for short- and medium-haul flights from May 19 across the group's brands.
Comparison with Existing Fare Classes
Enhancements to "Economy Light"
The new fare will come at a discount to the established "Economy Light" class, which will be enhanced to include an option to rebook reservations for a fee.
Lufthansa added this would enable "a clear, transparent selection tailored to individual needs".
Industry Context and Trends
Adoption of Basic Fares by Other Airlines
While a number of large U.S. carriers such as United Airlines have offered basic fares that charge extra for in-cabin baggage beyond a personal item, Lufthansa could set a trend among European full-service airlines.
Impact of Rising Jet Fuel Prices
A surge in jet fuel prices driven by the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran has forced airlines around the globe to take steps including raising fares and cutting their financial outlooks.
American Airlines' Recent Measures
Among measures taken, American Airlines is marking up fees on checked baggage by $10 each for the first and second bag and by $150 for the third on short-haul flights. It also trimmed certain benefits for economy passengers.
(Reporting by Ludwig Burger and Ilona Wissenbach in Frankfurt, Editing by Miranda Murray and Keith Weir)
Key Takeaways
- •Economy Basic limits included carry‑on to a personal item only (laptop bag or small backpack), with extra charges for any larger items.
- •This fare can be booked online from April 28 for travel starting May 19 across all Lufthansa Group’s European brands.
- •Economy Light will be retained and enhanced to allow reservation rebooking for a fee, offering more flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions about Lufthansa launches salvo in carry-on bag size battle with 'Economy Basic'
1What is Lufthansa's new Economy Basic fare?
Lufthansa's Economy Basic fare is an entry-level ticket that allows only a small laptop bag or backpack as carry-on, with additional luggage available as a paid add-on.
2When can passengers book the new Economy Basic fare?
The new Economy Basic fare can be booked online starting April 28 for flights departing from May 19.
3Which airlines within the Lufthansa Group offer the Economy Basic fare?
Economy Basic will be available on Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Discover Airlines, Lufthansa City Airlines, and Air Dolomiti.
4How does the baggage policy differ in the new Economy Basic fare?
Only small bags—such as a laptop or small backpack—are included. Larger carry-ons or checked baggage require an additional paid service.
5Will existing Economy Light fares change?
Economy Light fares will be enhanced to allow passengers to rebook their reservation for a fee.
