Four major airlines—Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian Airlines, and Brussels Airlines—are introducing new restrictions for travelers. The changes will affect short- and medium-haul flights, The Sun (18+) reports.

European airlines slash free carry-on allowances for budget fares

Passengers who purchase tickets under the cheapest Economy fare will be allowed to bring only one small personal item on board, such as a gadget backpack or a small handbag. Strict size limits apply: no more than 15 cm in height, 30 cm in width, and 40 cm in depth.

A fee will now be required for standard carry-on luggage, including travel bags or small suitcases.

The pilot program launched on April 28, 2026, covering 20 European routes, with the first flights under the new rules departing in May. If the trial proves successful, the policy will be rolled out across all remaining routes.

This shift reflects a broader trend in global aviation, where free carry-on allowances are being phased out. Ryanair led the way in 2006, followed by easyJet and other budget carriers. More recently, Air Canada began charging Economy passengers for cabin bags, with KLM and Air France later adopting similar policies.