Brussels Airlines is set to implement a new fare structure, eliminating the allowance for free overhead cabin baggage on its most economical tickets for short and medium-haul flights. This change comes with the introduction of the Economy Basic fare, which will limit passengers to only a small personal item that can fit under the seat, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack.
Currently, the Economy Light fare permits travelers to bring both a personal item and a standard cabin bag. Under the new system, those wishing to bring a larger cabin suitcase will need to select a higher fare category or incur an additional charge. This change will be piloted from April 28 for flights starting on May 19 on select routes, with potential plans for a broader implementation across the airline’s European network, depending on its success.
This adjustment is part of a larger strategy within the Lufthansa Group, which includes Brussels Airlines along with Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, Discover Airlines, Lufthansa City Airlines, and Air Dolomiti. While the airlines assert that this change offers greater flexibility and potentially lower fares for those traveling light, frequent travelers accustomed to carrying cabin luggage might find their overall costs unchanged after adding baggage fees.
The anticipated impact is significant for business travelers, frequent flyers, expatriates, and families who often depend on cabin baggage to sidestep checked luggage fees and mitigate airport delays. Passengers are encouraged to carefully examine fare conditions before booking and to evaluate the full travel cost, including any additional baggage fees, rather than simply focusing on the ticket’s base price.
For those traveling with only a personal item, this new fare structure could lead to savings. However, for many others who typically rely on cabin baggage, the least expensive ticket option might no longer equate to the lowest overall travel cost.