Wondering about the definition of low-cost carrier? Keep reading to learn the meaning of budget airline, see some examples, and get a better understanding of this travel glossary term!
What is a Low-Cost Carrier?
A low-cost carrier (LCC) is an airline which offers bargain prices (compared to other airlines), usually in exchange for reduced service, few or no amenities, à la carte pricing, and a lack of a frequent flier program, among other things.
Flying on a low-cost carrier would fit the backpacker lifestyle more than it would that of a business traveler, traditionally speaking.
Low-cost carriers can be referred to by several terms, including budget airlines, no-frills carriers, or discount carriers.
More on Budget Airlines
Food, beverages, seat selection, checked baggage, and other such items are often not included in the general ticket price on a low-cost carrier; a passenger will normally have to pay for each item separately.
Budget carrier airlines won’t usually provide such amenities as in-flight entertainment devices.
Some budget airlines that are well known include Ryanair, easyjet, and Wizz Air in Europe and AirAsia and Lion Air of Asia. Though Asia and Europe have many more budget carriers than North America, the largest LCC in the world is currently Southwest Airlines of the United States.
jetBlue in the US is also considered a low-cost carrier, though its service and pricing are often somewhere in between regular airlines and discount carriers.
Related Reads:
- Budget Travel – Glossary Definition
- How to Travel Cheap: Budget Travel Tips for Inexpensive Exploration
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