Latam has realigned its fare structure introducing fare bundles with different benefits. Entry level fares may not include a checked luggage allowance going forward.
The realignment has already been rolled out for regional fares in South America and a spokesperson for the airline in Johannesburg told TNW that the change was expected to be rolled out to fares exiting Johannesburg during December.
This will see Promo Fares in Q and O class for throughfares exiting Johannesburg excluding a free baggage allowance. This change is also expected to be rolled out on other Latam routes in the future.
Bookings made in higher classes will still include one 23kg piece of luggage.
Earlier this year, Virgin Atlantic and Iberia introduced similar fare structures that do not include checked luggage for entry level fares in the SA market.
Promo Fares will also not allow alterations, class upgrades or miles to be earned. One piece of hand luggage is included and there are extra charges for seat selection.
Light Fares allow mileage accumulation and are more flexible relating to changes. Plus Fares allow certain seat selection free of charge. They also permit class upgrades. Baggage allowance may also be excluded depending on the route booked for both Light and Plus Fares.
Top Economy Fares include one piece of hand luggage, free of charge seat selection, alterations, mileage accumulation, class upgrades and two items of hold luggage.
Business Class Plus Fares include one piece of hand luggage, three pieces of hold luggage, seat selection and mileage accrual, while Top Business Class Fares also allow for flight alternation flexibility.
GDS entries to add baggage are detailed in the Latam trade portal. Agents can contact the Johannesburg Latam office should they have any queries.
