United Follows American’s Lead in Checked Baggage, Will Charge for 1st Checked Bag

United Airlines announced two amendments to its checked baggage policy this morning. United, following in the steps of competitor American Airlines, disclosed today that it will begin charging those flying domestically (or to Canada) in economy class $15 for their first checked bag. The fees are waived for passengers flying internationally in all classes or domestically in either First or Business class. Those that hold Premier Status with United or within the Star Alliance are also exempt from these new fees.

John Tague, executive vice president and chief operating officer of United Airlines, attributed the new fees to the current difficult operating climate of commercial aviation, writing in a United  press release that “with record-breaking fuel prices, we must pursue new revenue opportunities, while continuing to offer competitive fares, by tailoring our products and services around what our customers value most and are willing to pay for.” United predicts that the new fees, which will be levied to select customers who bought their tickets after June 13, will generate an estimated $275 million a year in revenue. With United Airlines following rival American’s suit, expect other legacy carriers in the coming days to adopt charges for the first checked bag as well.

Source: United Airlines Press Release