Brussels Airlines is set to alter its fare structure by eliminating free overhead cabin baggage from its cheapest tickets on short and medium-haul routes. Currently, passengers with an Economy Light ticket can bring both a personal item and a standard cabin bag. However, the upcoming Economy Basic fare will restrict travelers to just a small personal item that fits under the seat, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack.
To carry a larger cabin suitcase, passengers will need to either opt for a higher fare category or incur an additional fee. The airline plans to test this new fare from April 28 for flights starting May 19 on selected routes, with intentions to expand the model across its European network if deemed successful. This strategy is part of a broader initiative by the Lufthansa Group, which includes Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, Discover Airlines, Lufthansa City Airlines, and Air Dolomiti.
According to the airlines, the revised fare structure aims to offer more flexibility, allowing travelers with minimal luggage to enjoy lower fares. Nonetheless, passengers who consistently carry cabin luggage might find negligible differences in overall costs once additional baggage fees are factored in. The change is likely to significantly impact business travelers, frequent flyers, expatriates, and families who typically rely on cabin baggage to avoid the costs and delays associated with checked luggage.
Passengers are encouraged to thoroughly review fare conditions prior to booking, ensuring they compare the total travel cost, including any baggage fees, rather than solely focusing on the ticket’s advertised price. While the new fare could provide savings for those traveling with only a personal item, for many others, the lowest-priced ticket may no longer equate to the most economical travel option.