Airlines Impose Fee for Checking Bags

There is a new trend in air travel – charging travelers for checking more than one bag per person.United Airlines’ said its new $25 fee to check a second bag offers customers choice, flexibility and low fares, but travelers were not buying the explanation and took to blogs to protest.

The new policy is the first of its kind among major carriers and has raised the ire of travelers who already feel fleeced by carriers charging for in-flight foods and services that were once included in the fare. Experts believe the new bag-check fee charged by United’s parent UAL likely will be matched by rival carriers soon.

The announcement caused a major stir with travelers posting their displeasure within hours of United’s announcement Monday. The airline states the fee is expected to generate more than $100 million a year in revenue and cost savings to help offset skyrocketing fuel costs.

The fee will be charged to customers who purchase non-refundable domestic economy tickets, but do not have status in frequent flyer programs at United or one of its partners in the Star Alliance. There is no fee to check one bag and previously the cost to customers checking two bags was included in the fare.

Bag-check policies will vary for every major airlines, but generally most check two bags at no additional charge. Southwest Airlines, the largest U.S. low-cost carrier, has begun charging travelers to check a third bag. The first two bags remain free.

Travelers posted their feelings on airline websites and travel blogs across the internet with the general feeling being that they are once again being fleeced by airlines looking to increase their profit margin.

www.staralliance.com