Passengers flying with Turkish low-cost carrier AJet now have to pay a surcharge if they want to bring a large carry-on bag on board. The Turkish Airlines subsidiary adjusted its carry-on baggage rules in December. The cheapest Basic fare now only includes a personal item measuring 40 × 30 × 15 cm with a maximum weight of 4 kg.
Previously, a large carry-on bag (55 × 40 × 23 cm, 8 kg) and a personal item were included for all passengers. Now, at least the EcoJet fare must be booked to include this. Alternatively, the carry-on bag can be added later in the booking process (after seat selection) for around €12.
At least the surcharge is still fairly reasonable in most cases. As in the following example, where the fare including 25 kg of checked baggage and a large carry-on costs only €20 extra.
Competitor Pegasus Airlines adjusted its baggage rules accordingly two years ago. AJet is now following the same downward spiral.
€50 Penalty Fee at the Gate
AJet threatens passengers who do not add the carry-on baggage in advance with a €50 penalty fee at the gate.
Especially at outstations, this will probably not be enforced rigorously. Still, it’s advisable not to take the risk.
EU Regulation Still Pending
For several years now, the European Union has been discussing uniform minimum standards that all airlines would have to comply with. The aim is to restore price transparency. Currently, this is not the case when a flight costs €20, but passengers end up paying €30 for carry-on baggage later in the booking process.
The European Parliament approved a corresponding motion for the first time in autumn 2023. Since then, the plans have become more concrete: airlines would be required to allow a personal item plus an additional carry-on bag with L + W + H = 100 cm (e.g. 50 × 30 × 20 cm). However, nothing has been decided yet, and there is also opposition to the proposal within the EU.
Cover Picture: © Turkish Technology