Northwest to charge $25 for second bag

High-end fliers exempt; airline also to charge $50 for bags over 50 pounds

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updated 3:21 p.m. ET March 28, 2008

EAGAN, Minn. - Northwest Airlines says it will begin charging $25 for a second piece of luggage for flights within North America.

The charge goes into effect May 5 and applies each-way on a two-way trip. Several other carriers are adding an extra charge for a second checked bag including US Airways and United Airlines.

Northwest's high-end frequent fliers and full-fare passengers can still check two bags without paying extra. First-class passengers get three bags for free.

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Northwest is also going to start charging $50 for bags over 50 pounds. The old fee was $25.

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