United matches US Airways’ baggage fee plan

updated 7:22 p.m. ET May 14, 2009

CHICAGO - United Airlines is adding an extra $5 charge for travelers who pay their baggage fee at the airport instead of online.

The move matches a change announced by US Airways last month.

Travelers have generally paid $15 to check their first bag on United and $25 for the second bag. But for tickets bought after Thursday for travel beginning June 10, they'll pay $5 more to settle those charges at the airport rather than on United's Web site.

United says the change will encourage customers to use online check-in. First- and business-class passengers, high-level frequent fliers, and active military personnel don't have to pay to check their first two bags.

United, a unit of Chicago-based UAL Corp., collected $259 million in add-on fees like baggage charges during the first quarter.

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