A Brazilian airline with connections to Portugal has just launched a new international fare that promises cheaper tickets, but with a detail that is surprising many travelers. According to Infomoney, a Brazilian website specializing in economics and business, the new option, called Basic fare, follows the model of European low-cost companies, allowing you to travel with just a small backpack or bag that fits under the seat.
The measure, which came into force this Tuesday, aims to make travel more accessible, but involves important restrictions for those who are used to carrying hand luggage. According to the publication, this rate does not include the transport of suitcases in the overhead compartments, being limited to a single volume with maximum dimensions of 32 cm wide, 22 cm high and 43 cm deep, and weighing up to 10 kilos.
A cheaper rate, but with limits
The airline Gol explains that this modality is aimed at passengers looking for cheaper tickets and traveling with little luggage. However, anyone wishing to take a traditional cabin bag will have to opt for a higher rate or pay for the additional service.
According to Infomoney, the Basic fare will initially only be available for international flights originating outside Brazil, and, in the case of domestic operations, only on the route between Galeão Airport, in Rio de Janeiro, and Montevideo, in Uruguay.
Still, this change is also of interest to Portuguese passengers, as Gol operates flights connecting to Portugal through partnerships with European companies, such as TAP Air Portugal, allowing travel between Lisbon and several Brazilian cities.
Changes to flight rules
In addition to the new fare, the company announced changes to the conditions for rescheduling and advancing flights. According to the same source, rebooking will be available on all fares: with or without an extra fee, depending on the ticket purchased.
Another new feature is the possibility of moving the flight forward at any time of the day, and not just up to six hours before departure, as was previously the case. The presence or absence of an additional fee will also depend on the tariff.
Gol states that these changes seek to give passengers more flexibility and align their policies with the international standard of low-cost airlines.
A model that is close to the European low cost ones
For Infomoney, the introduction of the Basic tariff brings Gol closer to companies such as Ryanair or EasyJet, where the lower price is accompanied by service segmentation. Passengers only pay for what they actually use: but the risk is that the final cost will rise if they add extras such as baggage, assigned seats or boarding priority.
Tourism experts warn that, although the measure brings more economical options, it requires greater attention from travelers. Many tickets may seem cheaper at first glance, but can become more expensive when all supplements are included.
The impact on those traveling from Portugal to Brazil
Gol is one of the companies with the highest volume of passengers between Portugal and Brazil, especially on routes to São Paulo, Salvador and Fortaleza. Therefore, this change has a direct impact on those traveling from Lisbon, as the new fares may affect the baggage policy on connecting trips.
According to , the company intends to gradually expand this model to other international routes, reinforcing its competitive positioning in an increasingly price-sensitive market.
For now, the recommendation is clear: before buying the ticket, carefully check the chosen fare. You can save on the price, but you risk traveling without a suitcase or backpack.
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