United Adopts $15 Checked-Bag Charge

United Airlines will follow rival American Airlines in charging $15 for a first checked bag. The new fee was announced today, 3 weeks after American set the precedent. United says the fee affects customers who buy tickets beginning tomorrow for domestic flights Aug. 18 or later.

Also, the Chicago-based carrier is increasing the fee to check three or more bags, overweight bags, or items that require special handling to $125 from $100, or to $250 from $200, depending on the item. As of July 1, Southwest Airlines will be the only US carrier that permits two checked bags for free, notes an airline expert.