Virgin American to start charging for first checked bag

[pgengler]

Virgin America to Charge $15 for First Checked Bag
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) -- Virgin America became the latest carrier to begin charging to check luggage, adding a $15 fee for the first bag.

The upstart carrier also said it was simplifying its baggage charges, going to $15 per bag. Previously, the first bag was free, the second bag was $25 and the third was $50. The changes effect bookings made beginning Thursday for travel beginning May 5.

It said first-class travelers will get up to two checked bags for free, and those who fly in its ''Main Cabin Select'' seats or those flying on fully refundable fares will get one checked bag for free.

Virgin America also said it would reduce its fee for changes or cancellations made online to $50, from $75 previously.

The privately held airline started in 2007 and lost money through the first three quarters of last year.

[JetBlueAirwaysFan]

Well, that leaves only JetBlue and Southwest who have the first checked back for free. Of course, Southwest also has the second checked bag for free also.