Lufthansa airlines to charge extra for hand luggage under new fare system

Lufthansa Group has introduced a new entry-level fare for short- and medium-haul flights that requires passengers to pay extra for hand luggage, the company announced Thursday.

The new "Economy Basic" fare, which will go into effect on April 28 for travel beginning May 19, will be gradually implemented on select routes across Lufthansa Group airlines, including Lufthansa, SWISS, Austrian Airlines, Brussels Airlines, Discover Airlines, Lufthansa City Airlines, and Air Dolomiti.

The new fare includes only one personal item, such as a laptop bag or small backpack. The personal item must not exceed 40x30x15 centimeters in size.

Passengers wishing to bring additional carry-on or checked baggage will need to purchase it separately as an add-on service or opt for higher fare categories that include expanded baggage allowances.

The group said the new structure is designed to offer a lower-cost entry option while providing "clear and transparent" choices tailored to passenger needs, particularly for short-haul travelers.

Alongside the new "Basic" fare, the existing "Light" fare will also be updated to include a paid rebooking option, offering passengers greater flexibility for an additional fee.

The change brings Lufthansa Airlines in line with many other carriers that have long charged separately for cabin baggage.