United Follows Delta In Doubling Second-Checked-Bag Fee

United Airlines today said it is doubling its fee to check a second bag from $25 to $50 per way. The fee is effective for bookings beginning Tuesday for travel on or after Nov. 10.

United is the second legacy carrier to double the fee for a second checked bag, following Delta Air Lines' late July move. Delta raised that fee instead of instituting a charge for checking a first bag. However, United charges $15 to check a single piece of luggage.

United's new policy applies to economy passengers traveling within the United States, and to and from Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. First and business class customers are exempt, as are holders of Premier status with United or the Star Alliance.

Meanwhile, Frontier Airlines on Friday launched plans to charge $15 for the first checked piece of luggage for travel beginning Nov. 1, exempting elite frequent flyers. Frontier charges passengers $25 to check a second bag.