Only One Bag Free, As Of May 5

In an effort to cut costs, while also generating more revenue, this week United Airlines made a significant change to its checked baggage policy. As of May 5, travelers who purchase non-refundable or discount domestic flight tickets will be limited to one -- and only one -- free bag on United, Ted, and United Express flights.

A service fee of $25 will be placed on the second bag for "Non-members or General Members of Mileage Plus on non-refundable Economy fares or Economy Saver Award Tickets," according to United's domestic baggage information website.

Members of United's Elite programs -- those who routinely fly over 25,000 miles per year -- will not be affected by the change. Charges for additional bags (three or more) were increased to a flat fee of $100 per bag, for everyone, though.

"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's size and weight requirements will remain the same, as will its carry-on policy. Strollers, car seats, wheelchairs, and essential medical equipment will continue to be free of charge, while sports equipment would count as a second bag.

So far, no other airlines have rushed to match the policy, reports MSNBC... but this may be a case where United leads, and other airlines will inevitably follow. Unbundled (or 'a la carte') pricing, combined with passing along rising fuel costs to passengers, are the latest efforts from several carriers to stay afloat financially.

The move should encourage passengers to seriously reconsider their luggage stuffing, and -- in theory -- provide more room in the baggage compartment and less work for handlers. Conversely, it may also lead to even bulkier "carry-on" baggage... but look at it this way, it's one less bag for TSA to paw through, out of sight.

FMI: www.united.com