Lufthansa has introduced a new “Economy Basic” fare on its short and medium-haul European routes, significantly changing the airline’s entry-level travel experience. The new fare removes the standard cabin-sized carry-on bag allowance, permitting passengers to carry only a small personal item onboard.
Under the updated policy, travellers can bring a compact item measuring approximately 40 × 30 × 15 cm, similar to a handbag or small backpack. Passengers wanting a standard carry-on bag of up to 8 kg will need to pay an additional fee, starting from around EUR 15 if booked in advance.
The move is notable because even top-tier frequent flyers within Star Alliance and Miles & More will not receive exemptions when booking the Economy Basic fare. Traditionally, elite members retained certain baggage privileges regardless of ticket type, making this a major shift in airline loyalty benefits.
The policy currently applies only to short and medium-haul European routes operated by Lufthansa. Long-haul international flights will continue to include standard carry-on and checked baggage allowances for economy passengers.
Industry observers have pointed out that the new baggage allowance is even smaller than those offered by low-cost airlines such as Ryanair and easyJet. This reflects a growing trend among full-service carriers to adopt unbundled pricing models similar to budget airlines.
The airline’s strategy is aimed at offering lower headline fares while encouraging passengers to purchase add-ons such as cabin baggage, seat selection and upgraded services. Analysts say the move highlights broader changes in the aviation industry, where airlines are increasingly focusing on flexible pricing and ancillary revenue streams.