Lufthansa vs Ryanair
Side-by-side comparison of Lufthansa and Ryanair: cabin and checked baggage allowances, fees, online check-in deadlines, alliances, hubs and contacts.
Germany
Ireland| Lufthansa | Ryanair | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Germany | Ireland |
| Founded | 1953 | 1985 |
| Type | Full-service airline | Low-cost carrier |
| Alliance | Star Alliance | - |
| Main hubs | Munich Airport, Frankfurt Airport | London Stansted Airport |
| Aircraft types | 10 | 2 |
| Cabin bag weight | 8 kg (18 lb) | 10 kg (22 lb) |
| Cabin bag size | 55 × 40 × 23 cm (22 × 16 × 9 in) | 55 × 40 × 20 cm (22 × 16 × 8 in) |
| Checked bag (Economy) | not included | not included |
| Extra bag fee | from 90 USD | - |
| Online check-in opens | 30 h | 24 h |
| Online check-in closes | 40 min | 2 h |
| Airport check-in fee | free | free |
| Customer service phone | - | +353 1 691 7177 |
Key differences
- Ryanair allows a heavier cabin bag: 10 kg (22 lb) vs 8 kg (18 lb) at Lufthansa.
- Lufthansa opens online check-in earlier (30 h before departure vs 24 h).
- Lufthansa lets you check in online closer to departure (40 min vs 2 h).
- Ryanair is a low-cost carrier: expect a cheaper base fare with bags, seats and airport check-in sold separately, while Lufthansa bundles more into the ticket.
- Lufthansa is a Star Alliance member, so miles and status benefits carry over to partner airlines.
Other comparisons
Allowances shown are for the basic Economy fare on most routes. Fees are the lowest published prices and change often - confirm on the official websites before booking.