Air Transat has announced a major change to its baggage policy, eliminating free carry-on baggage for passengers traveling on its Eco Budget fare. The Montreal-based airline joins other Canadian carriers, such as Air Canada and WestJet, in adopting similar cost-cutting measures.
Effective Tuesday, February 11, 2025, customers purchasing an Eco Budget fare will only be allowed to bring one personal item, such as a handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack. Any additional baggage, including traditional carry-on luggage, must be checked according to the airline’s standard baggage fees.
For Eco Standard fare passengers, Air Transat will continue to permit one carry-on bag and one personal item, while checked baggage will be subject to applicable baggage fees.
These changes apply to flights to and from the South (Caribbean, Mexico), the United States, and domestic flights within Canada.
However, flights to Europe, Morocco, and Peru as well as Transat all-inclusive vacation packages will not be affected by the new baggage rules.
The airline stated that the updated policy aims to provide more competitive base fares, aligning Air Transat with current industry trends.
“These changes are intended to offer more competitive base fares, align with current industry practices, and allow travelers to pay only for the services they truly need,” Air Transat said in a statement.
The airline further emphasized that these adjustments will ensure an accessible travel experience while meeting market expectations.
Air Transat’s decision follows similar moves made by Air Canada and WestJet:
- WestJet introduced a cheaper fare for passengers willing to fly without a carry-on bag in May 2024.
- Air Canada eliminated free carry-on baggage for Economy Basic fare passengers starting January 3, 2025, for flights within Canada, the U.S., Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Last month, executives from Canadian airlines faced scrutiny from Members of Parliament (MPs) in Ottawa over these changes. Airline leaders argued that government reforms are necessary to lower travel costs and make aviation more accessible in Canada.
Passengers booking the cheapest Air Transat fares should be aware of these additional baggage fees when planning their trips. The changes could result in higher overall travel costs, particularly for budget travelers accustomed to bringing a carry-on suitcase.