Cathay Pacific’s HK Express to charge fliers for carry-on suitcase option under new baggage policy

Budget airline under Cathay increases number of fare types from two to four, with those flying ‘Ultra Lite’ only able to bring on one personal item weighing under 7kg

HK Express says those who booked on or before Tuesday can still qualify for previous allowance of one small item and one piece of cabin baggage

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HK Express say the move will give customers more options when they travel. Photo: Shutterstock

Published: 10:22am, 8 May 2024Updated: 7:33pm, 8 May 2024

Cathay Pacific Airways’ budget airline, HK Express, will charge passengers more if they wish to travel with a carry-on suitcase, with the option no longer available to those flying on the cheapest fares under the carrier’s new baggage policy.

The policy took effect on Wednesday as part of an increase in the number of fare types from two to four.

HK Express said the move would give travellers more options, based on whether they wished to “travel light or be well-prepared for a journey”.

“HK Express Airways (HK Express) has expanded our fare categories from two to four tiers, enabling customers to make flexible choices according to their travel needs and reduce unnecessary expenses,” the airline said.

“Our variety of flexible fare options allows customers who prefer travelling light to enjoy more affordable fares, and, if needed, purchase extra allowances for checked baggage and select add-on services.”

The airline said customers who booked their tickets on or before Tuesday were still entitled to the previous policy’s allowance of up to one small personal item and one piece of cabin baggage with a maximum weight of 7kg (15.4lbs).