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AirTran, JetBlue and Alaska Air Group Are First Low-Cost Airlines to Charge for 2nd Bag
Once the legacy airlines announced they'll be charging economy flyers to check a second piece of luggage, it didn't take long for the low-cost carriers to get in line. AirTran, JetBlue and Alaska Air Group (Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air) have each announced a new policy, though they are not all charging the same fee. They all continue to allow one free checked bag and their carry-on policies remain intact.
Here's the "fine print" for each of the airlines:
AirTran Airways
• A fee for a second checked bag takes effect May 15, 2008, and applies each way. If you use the online check-in, the fee is $10; if you wait to check in at the airport, the fee is $20.
• Fees do not apply to passengers who hold Elite status in AirTran Airways' A+ Rewards frequent flier program, or ticketed passengers traveling in business class. Active military personnel traveling with ID and official orders are exempt from paying the second bag fee. Active military personnel also can check in one duffle or sea bag with a maximum weight of 70 lbs free of charge; other types of bags (i.e. Black 22) are subject to weight and size limitations.
For more information, visit the "Baggage Policies " section on airtran.com.
JetBlue Airways
• A $20 fee takes effect May 1, 2008, and applies each way. Passengers flying on tickets issued before May 1, 2008, are exempt and can still check two free pieces of luggage.
• Customers checking three or more bags on their flight will be charged a $75 fee per bag if they booked on or after May 1, 2008.
For more information, check the "Checked Baggage" section on www.jetblue.com.
Alaska Air Group—Alaska Airlines & Horizon Air
• A $25 fee takes effect for travel on or after July 1, 2008, and applies each way. Passengers flying on tickets issued before May 1, 2008, are exempt and can still check two free pieces of luggage.
• Applies to economy-class tickets. Customers in first class and members of the MVP Gold Mileage Plan are exempt and can check two bags at no charge.
• Other exceptions: Military personnel on active duty are allowed to check two duffel bags up to 70 pounds per bag and up to 115 linear inches free of charge. Customers making international connections to other airlines can follow the weight restrictions of the international airline, which may allow for heavier bags than the Alaska Airlines free allowance. Customers traveling solely within the state of Alaska can check three bags free of charge. Customers traveling to or from Guadalajara or Mexico City can check two bags free of charge.
For more information, visit the "Checked Baggage" section on www.alaskaair.com.