Lufthansa has introduced a new 'economy basic' fare for short- and medium-haul flights, featuring Europe's smallest free cabin baggage allowance on standard passenger jets. The move comes as the German airline aims to reduce fuel consumption and offer an attractive entry-level price to compete with budget carriers.
New Fare Details
Bookings for the new class opened on Tuesday, with services starting on 19 May on selected routes. The economy basic fare allows passengers to bring a cabin bag measuring 40 x 30 x 15cm, giving a maximum volume of 18 litres. This is 25% smaller than the 24-litre allowance offered by Ryanair and Wizz Air, and nearly half the 32.4 litres allowed by easyJet. In contrast, British Airways' Economy Basic permits two bags totalling 81 litres and up to 46kg.
Comparison with Other Airlines
The dimensions match the smallest size agreed upon by Airlines for Europe and EU transport ministers. The new fare applies to Lufthansa Group airlines, including Swiss, Austrian Airlines, and Brussels Airlines. Lufthansa stated: 'The new basic fare offers day travellers an additional option at an attractive entry-level price. Those who wish to bring more luggage can flexibly add carry-on or checked baggage as an add-on service.'
Expanded Fare Options
The economy basic fare increases Lufthansa's economy options to five. The other four are:
- Economy light: Two pieces of cabin baggage
- Economy classic: As above plus a checked bag and free seat reservations
- Economy green: Similar to classic but about 10% more expensive to fund future CO2 savings
- Economy flex: Classic benefits with no rebooking fee, priority boarding, and maximum frequent-flyer points
Lufthansa says the enhanced fare structure enables 'a clear, transparent selection tailored to individual needs.'
Frequent Flyer Benefits
Passengers with the highest frequent-flyer status—HON Circle, Senator, or Star Alliance Gold—can bring a larger additional cabin bag even on economy basic fares. The airline introduced the new class shortly after cancelling tens of thousands of flights due to rising jet fuel costs.
Meanwhile, airlines continue negotiations with the European Commission over cabin baggage rules, after MEPs voted to force carriers to allow a free roll-along bag. Airlines argue such a policy would delay flights and increase fares.
