Monday, February 04, 2008
United Enhances Baggage Service with New Fee
United Airlines announced today its newest customer service initiative. Charging passengers who bring a second bag. It's long been accepted practice for most airlines to accept two bags to place down below in the checked luggage area. United, faced with a competitive environment and higher fuel costs are looking to make that money up somewhere.
First they tried to impose a $25 fuel surcharge per flight segment. With nobody matching, that fee was quietly withdrawn a few days later. Today, they've announced that same fee returning, but only for customers who purchase a discounted fare and check a second bag. This will, by United's own account, affect one quarter of passengers on domestic flights. It's generally assumed that International flights will be unaffected. Also frequent fliers with status will be exempt as well.
They aren't the only carrier with recent changes in baggage. Southwest made their policy for extra baggage more in line with most other US carriers, now only accepting two bags without an extra fee. United's step further gets them just one level above Skybus and Spirit who charge for all baggage.
It starts to make me wonder if there's a good reason for flying the "majors" anymore. Outside of having a larger network, they generally have higher prices, and the same service.
First they tried to impose a $25 fuel surcharge per flight segment. With nobody matching, that fee was quietly withdrawn a few days later. Today, they've announced that same fee returning, but only for customers who purchase a discounted fare and check a second bag. This will, by United's own account, affect one quarter of passengers on domestic flights. It's generally assumed that International flights will be unaffected. Also frequent fliers with status will be exempt as well.
They aren't the only carrier with recent changes in baggage. Southwest made their policy for extra baggage more in line with most other US carriers, now only accepting two bags without an extra fee. United's step further gets them just one level above Skybus and Spirit who charge for all baggage.
It starts to make me wonder if there's a good reason for flying the "majors" anymore. Outside of having a larger network, they generally have higher prices, and the same service.
Roger, 6:00 PM
