German airline Lufthansa announced that, starting May 19, it will charge for carry-on baggage other than laptops and small backpacks.
Lufthansa, which canceled 20,000 flights through October due to jet fuel prices doubling as a result of the war in Iran, has now decided to end its free carry-on baggage policy. According to a statement from the company, on all aircraft within the Lufthansa Group, passengers will be able to bring only a small personal item—such as a laptop bag or backpack—into the cabin without paying a fee. With this decision, passengers will pay an additional fee starting at 15 euros for the 8-kilogram luggage—most of which is currently wheeled and placed in the overhead compartment. The decision will take effect for tickets purchased starting April 28 and will be implemented for short- and medium-haul flights on or after May 19.
Lufthansa justifies this change by citing shifts in passenger behavior. According to the company, the new fee structure offers an additional option with an attractive entry price, particularly for day-trippers.
