Canadian airline scraps free carry-on and checked bags on cheapest fares

You might want to pack light the next time you fly with Air Transat, as the airline has removed free carry-on and checked bag benefits from its lowest fares.

These changes come into effect on Tuesday, February 11, but they don't apply to vacation packages and reservations made before then. They apply to flights to and from the South, the US, and domestic flights.

Air Transat passengers travelling on an eco budget fare or eco promo fare (which includes the same benefits but at a lower price) will now only be allowed to bring one personal item. Carry-on baggage is no longer included with the fare, and those travelling won't have the option to add a carry-on, so be prepared to pay to check any additional bags.

Passengers travelling on both budget fares now have the option to add one checked bag for $46 and a second for $63.

On the other hand, those travelling on an eco-standard fare can still bring one carry-on bag and a personal item. However, checked baggage will no longer be included in the fare, so travellers will have to pay extra.

airtransat.com

According to Air Transat, these changes only apply to flights. They won't affect all-inclusive vacation packages in economy class, which will still include one personal item, a carry-on bag, and a checked bag. Flights to Europe, Morocco, and Peru won't be subject to these changes either.

The Montreal-based airline is the second Canadian airline to implement additional baggage fees this year.

Starting January 3, Air Canada passengers travelling on basic economy fares within North America or to destinations like Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean must pay extra for carry-on luggage.