Lufthansa introduces “Economy Basic” with Europe’s smallest cabin bag allowance

After scrapping tens of thousands of flights due to rising jet fuel costs, Lufthansa is now looking to cut consumption further by rolling out a new “Economy Basic” option on its short- and medium-haul routes.

The airline has opened bookings for this new fare, which will begin operating on selected routes from May 19. It’s aimed at offering a lower entry price so it can better compete with low-cost carriers.

However, the cheaper ticket comes with a trade-off: it includes the smallest free cabin baggage allowance among major European airlines.

While Ryanair and Wizz Air let passengers bring a 40 × 30 × 20 cm bag (24 litres), Lufthansa’s new limit is about 25 per cent smaller, reducing the smallest dimension to 15 cm for a total volume of 18 litres.

This size aligns with the minimum standard agreed upon by Airlines for Europe and EU transport ministers.

By comparison, easyJet allows nearly double the volume for free hand luggage, while British Airways offers a far more generous “Economy Basic” allowance of two bags totalling 81 litres and up to 46 kg.

The new fare will also be introduced across other airlines in the Lufthansa Group, including Swiss International Air Lines, Austrian Airlines, and Brussels Airlines.

According to the airline, the fare is meant to give travellers – especially those on short day trips – a more affordable option.

Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook