United Airlines’ new baggage policy
Posted by deneb7 on April 27, 2008
I wasn’t aware of this until my dad told me, so in case you’re as out of it as I am: Starting in May, economy flyers can only check one bag when you fly on UA (used to be two).
I looked on their website, but it has not updated new/future policies. However, seatguru.com had a very detailed outline of their new rules. Not long ago, they lowered the maximum weight of checked packages, and now this. I guess rising gas prices are taking a toll.
Quick Summary:
If you purchased your ticket before 2/4/08 or is flying before 5/5/08, you get a break and you can still check two pieces of baggage. Otherwise, you can only check one package weighting 50 lb/23 kg.
One exception for economy flyers is if you have refundable/standard award tickets, or are Premier/Premier Associate Mileage Plus/Star Alliance Silver members on any fare or award ticket.
You can pay for excess bags, but apparently that’s only if there’s available space.
Personal Thoughts
I bought my ticket after 2/4 and I’m flying on May 5th. 
I only brought one checked luggage but I was worried I might go over the weight limit (because I was already at 46lbs before) and was planning to split it in two.
Luckily, you’re still allowed to bring a piece of luggage (max dimensions: 45 linear inches/114 cm (length + width + height)) on board with you, in addition to one personal item. Whew.
I’m a bit irritated because they shouldn’t be allowed to impose this policy on people who bought their tickets prior to their new rule, especially if they don’t have the courtesy of notifying you of the new policy when you call to confirm your ticket reservation.
Basically, they’re going to make everyone who didn’t know about the new policy (and who they didn’t bother telling) pay $25 for checking their second item, and almost $100 for each item after that.
