u/RedOnion2397

Lufthansa has officially joined the growing list of airlines charging passengers for standard hand luggage.

The German carrier introduced this restrictive policy for all new bookings made from 28 April 2026.
The updated baggage rules affect all scheduled journeys departing on or after 19 May 2026. Under the new system, Lufthansa has completely eliminated free cabin suitcases on short- and medium-haul routes. The airline launched a new Economy Basic tariff specifically designed to implement these baggage restrictions.
Passengers purchasing this basic ticket are restricted to a single small personal item at no extra cost.
Lufthansa requires this complimentary item to fit completely beneath the seat in front of the passenger.
The dimensions for this single free item must not exceed approximately 40 × 30 × 15 cm.

Travelling with a standard larger cabin bag now requires a separate additional payment.

Fees for bringing a larger hand luggage item on board start at roughly 15 Euros per flight leg.

Lufthansa justified the decision by claiming it creates more attractive, cheaper ticket options for day trippers.

Lufthansa passengers must now pay these extra fees until potential EU regulations standardise baggage allowances.

Source: https://www.esquire.de/life/reisen/handgepaeck-nicht-mehr-gratis-neue-regeln-bei-lufthansa-aendert-fuer-passagiere