Brussels Airlines is set to alter its fare structure, eliminating free overhead cabin baggage from its most economical ticket options on short and medium-haul flights. Currently, the Economy Light fare allows passengers to carry both a personal item and a standard cabin bag. However, the upcoming Economy Basic fare will restrict passengers to a single small personal item that must fit under the seat, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack.
Passengers who wish to bring larger cabin luggage will need to either opt for a higher fare category or pay an additional fee. This new fare structure will be trialed starting April 28 for flights departing from May 19 on select routes. If the trial proves successful, Brussels Airlines plans to implement the changes more broadly across its European network.
This initiative is part of a broader strategy by the Lufthansa Group, which encompasses Brussels Airlines, Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, Discover Airlines, Lufthansa City Airlines, and Air Dolomiti. Airlines assert that the changes offer greater flexibility, allowing passengers traveling light to benefit from lower fares. However, travelers who typically carry cabin luggage might find that their overall travel costs remain unchanged once baggage fees are factored in.
The greatest impact of this change is expected to be felt by business travelers, frequent flyers, expatriates, and families who often depend on cabin baggage to sidestep checked luggage fees and avoid airport delays. Consequently, passengers are urged to thoroughly review fare conditions prior to booking, ensuring they compare the total travel cost, including baggage fees, rather than just the headline ticket price.
While the new fare could offer savings for travelers with only a personal item, many others may find that the cheapest ticket no longer represents the lowest overall travel cost when additional baggage fees are taken into account.