United adds fee for checking a second bag

United adds fee for checking a second bag
Posted February 4, 2008 at 3:49 pm ET by Christine Sarkis,
SmarterTravel.com Staff

United ticket counter (Photo: United Airlines)

Let the 2008 airline industry nickel-and-diming begin. United
announced it will begin charging non-elite economy class passengers
for checking more than one bag. The $25 fee is limited to passengers
with nonrefundable domestic economy-class tickets who don't have
Premier status or higher in the airline's frequent flier program or
Silver status or higher with a Star Alliance partner.

If you're flying on the same reservation as a Mileage Plus Premier or
Star Alliance Silver or Gold member, you won't have to pay the fee.
You can also avoid the charge if you bought your ticket before
February 4 and will fly before May 5, or if you're on a flight
purchased through but not operated by United. You can find more
details in the policy FAQ.
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Reuters reports the move could make the airline $100 million dollars
per year "as the carrier attempts to offset soaring fuel costs." If
fare hikes were the name of the game in 2007, will 2008 be the year in
which industry giants match one another's revenue-boosting schemes
that hinge on charging for items and services previously covered in
the cost of a ticket?

Perhaps. Come to think of it, what's left to charge for? On many
airlines we already shell out for food, headphones, blankets, pillows,
or priority boarding. And this free checked baggage slope is suddenly
looking pretty slippery.

So are we heading toward pay toilets here? Seatbelt fees perhaps? Pay-
by-the-pretzel snack bags? At this rate, the beverage service, that
last bastion of "complimentary" amenities, is looking like an
endangered species. So enjoy that ginger ale while you can.

http://www.smartertravel.com/blogs/today-in-travel/united-adds-fee-for...ecking-