US Airways increasing overweight bag charges



South Florida Business Journal


Date: Thursday, February 10, 2011, 5:15pm EST - Last Modified: Thursday, February 10, 2011, 5:16pm EST


US Airways Group Inc., the fifth largest South Florida air carrier, is raising its charge for overweight bags.


The cost to check luggage weighing between 50 and 70 pounds will jump to $90 from $50 on flights within the Americas, according to the company’s website.


In addition, bags weighing 71 to 100 pounds will cost $175 to check in, up from $100.


And, the carrier is raising the price for a third checked bag. That will cost $125, up from $100.


The increased fees take effect next month.
Tough economic times have forced the airline industry to seek new revenue streams, including charging passengers for food and other amenities, reducing capacity, laying off employees and focusing on key markets.
US Airways (NYSE: LCC) has more than 3,200 flights per day to 200 domestic and foreign destinations. The carrier is based in Tempe, Ariz. and services Miami International, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International and Palm Beach International airports.