Beginning on October 1 Lufthansa, SWISS and Austrian passengers will have a simplified three-tiered Economy fare choice for intra-European travel.   The structure is loosely based on the current Germanwings concept that affords different ‘extras’ based on which of the 3 classes is booked.

The 3 Economy fare options will be ‘Light’, ‘Classic’, and ‘Flex’ and here is a breakdown of what the characteristics are for each of the 3:

 

LIGHT:

1 piece of carry-on luggage up t0 8 kilograms / 17 pounds.

Fares will be non-refundable and non-changeable.

For additional fees you can select your seat prior to check-in, check a bag (up to 50 kilograms / 23 pounds) or book seats with extra leg room such as bulkhead and exit row seating.

Eligible for Award and Status miles.

 

CLASSIC:

1 piece of luggage up to 23 kilograms / 50 pounds.

1 carry-on up to 8 kilograms / 17 pounds.

Free seat selection at the time of booking.

For additional fees you will be able to check additional baggage or select seats with extra leg room such as bulkhead or exit row seating.

Fares can be rebooked for a fee, but are non-refundable.

Eligible for Award and Status miles.

 

FLEX:

1 piece of luggage up to 23 kilograms / 50 pounds.

1 carry on up to 8 kilograms  17 / pounds.

Free seat selection at the time of booking.

For additional fees you will be able to check additional luggage or select seats with extra leg room such as bulkhead or exit row seating.

Fares can be rebooked for free and refundable for a fee.

Eligible for Award and Status miles.

50% Award Mile Bonus.

 

Regardless of which fare class is booked, Miles and More members will retain their status benefits so access to lounges, priority boarding, priority security etc. will not be affected.   Star Alliance Gold members also will be able to use their benefits as well, including access to Senator lounges, priority check-in, etc.   However, regardless of status level, passengers will be required to pay for a seat if they wish to choose a seat at booking under a ‘Light Fare’ and will need to pay if checking a bag.

Additionally, onboard catering will not be impacted by which fare class you select.   All passengers in Economy will receive the same level of beverage and meal service.

Booking for these new fare classes will be open beginning June 23 for SWISS flights while Austrian and Lufthansa will open their booking systems for these new fares starting on July 28.  Remember, these fares take effect for travel beginning on October 1, 2015.


a close-up of a plane