What Is a Low-Cost Carrier?

A low-cost carrier (LCC) is an airline that offers budget-friendly fares by eliminating non-essential services such as in-flight meals, seat selection, and free checked baggage. Airlines like Flair, Lynx Air, and Swoop in Canada focus on affordability by operating a no-frills model where passengers pay only for the services they need. For business travellers, LCCs can be a cost-effective alternative to full-service airlines, especially for domestic and short-haul flights. However, corporate travel programs must carefully assess the total cost of travel, as additional fees for baggage, seating, and ticket changes can sometimes make full-service carriers a better value for flexibility and reliability.