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United Charges for Second Bag

Other carriers watching closely

February 5, 2008

For all customers, the cost to check up to four additional bags will be $100 per bag. Previous charges ranged from $85-$125 per bag.

The cost to check items that require special handling because they are large, overweight or fragile will now be either $100 or $200, depending on the item, the airline announced Monday.

Some members of United's frequent flyer program will continue to be able to check two bags for free. Also, passengers flying on full-fare tickets will escape some of the charges.

"This change enables us to continue offering customers competitive fares, and it fits with our overall strategy to tailor our products and services around what our customers value most and are willing to pay for, as we have with our popular Economy Plus seating," said John Tague, executive vice president and chief revenue officer.

"Our customer research shows that only about one in four customers check a second bag, and with this new policy, customers who check extra bags may continue to do so for a service fee, which enables us to offer competitive fares to everyone."

United estimates that the change will generate more than $100 million annually for the company in cost savings and new revenue.

This new checked bag policy applies for travel beginning on May 5, 2008, within the U.S. and to/from Canada, San Juan, Puerto Rico and St. Thomas, and the service fee to check a second bag only applies to tickets purchased on or after Feb. 4, 2008. Customers may pay this service fee at an airport Easy Check-In kiosk with a credit card or at the check-in counter with a credit card, check or cash.

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