Continental to charge $15 for first bag

September 6, 2008

DALLAS Continental Airlines Inc. said yesterday it is charging some coach customers $15 for a first checked bag, matching a similar fee imposed by most other major U.S. carriers. A company spokeswoman said the fee would help offset high fuel costs, which have caused Continental and other carriers to lose money this year. The fee took effect immediately on tickets for travel in the United States and Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Canada for travel starting Oct. 7 or later. Bags that exceed weight and size restrictions could be subject to additional fees, the airline said. Houston-based Continental said the fee wouldn't apply to elite members of its frequent-flier program, those in first- or business-class seats, customers traveling on full-fare economy tickets, or military personnel and their families traveling on official orders. Most U.S. airlines charge customers who check more than one piece of luggage.

Associated Press