Continental Airlines joins rivals in adding first bag charge

Continental Airlines joined the ranks of most major U.S. airlines on Friday when it announced that it would charge economy-class passengers on most flights $15 for a first checked bag.

A Continental spokesperson explained that the bag fee would help the airline offset the rising cost of fuel, which has put many airlines in financial jeopardy this year.

The new fee goes into effect immediately on ticketing for U.S., Canada, U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico flights for which travel begins on or after October 7, 2008.

Additional charges will also apply to bags that exceed the permitted weight and size allowances.

Elite frequent flier program members, business and first class passengers, full-fare economy passengers and military personnel and their families on official travel will be exempt from the bag fee, according to the Houston-based carrier.

American Airlines, the country’s largest carrier, started the trend of first bag charges in June of this year. The chairman and CEO of American, Gerard Arpey, said that the carrier experienced “a little bit of flack” when the new charge was first introduced.

Delta Air Lines is now the only one of the six “legacy” airlines not charging for a first checked bag.

www.continental.com