United Airlines has introduced a new ticket option called “Basic Economy”. Under this new policy, the airline would limit those ticket holders to one small personal item and charge extra for full-sized carry-on luggage.
US Senator Chuck Schumer has demanded that, whatever be the ticket price, the overhead cabin should be free.
According to the previous announcements by the airline, they will start selling Basic Economy tickets on US domestic flights in the New Year.
The tickets will come with an unprecedented number of restrictions for a “legacy” carrier. Basic Economy passengers will be the last to board; they may be seated apart from their travelling companions; and can bring on board no cabin baggage beyond a laptop or shoulder bag small enough to fit under the seat in front of them. Checked-in cases start at $25 (£20) for the first bag.
Regarding this Senator Schumer said that, the overhead bin is one of the last sacred conveniences of air travel and the fact that United Airlines and potentially others plan to take that convenience away unless people pay for it is really troubling.
He called the policy a “lose-lose for the flying public” and said it “represents a slippery slope that could negatively alter the policy on free use of the overhead bins for all fliers.”
United Airlines has told its passengers that, Basic Economy fares have some important additional restrictions compared to their standard economy fares.
Wizz Air, an European airline has been charging for larger pieces of cabin baggage, and other airlines are known to be studying the concept.
