Russia's national flag carrier Aeroflot will introduce hand luggage-only fares for some of its medium-haul flights at the beginning of April, the Kommersant business daily reported on Tuesday.
The new fares come after increased passenger demand for charges to reflect this lighter style of travel. The discounts will apply to select flights operated by Aeroflot and Rossiya to some German and Italian cities.
"Now we can offer the best option for those who want to travel light and on a budget, and for those who want to get a premium flight experience," Andrei Chikhanchin, deputy CEO for commerce and finance at Aeroflot, said in a statement.
"In some areas, the plane fare discount will be up to 30 percent," the airline added.
All Aeroflot and Rossiya flights will continue to offer normal economy class fare options at no extra cost, including free checked baggage, the news website reported.
Earlier this year, the Pobeda budget airline was ordered by Russia’s Supreme Court to allow backpacks and other items as free hand luggage following numerous complaints and lawsuits from passengers.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
