Schumer Urges United Airlines To Drop New Luggage Policy
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.) says United Airlines should change a new fare structure that allows fliers to pay cheaper prices but comes with strict rules.
The New York Democrat says United's Basic Economy fare option is too restrictive. It limits passengers' bags and doesn't allow them to choose their seats.
Basic Economy fliers can only bring a bag on board that fits under the seat. Larger bags would have to be checked for a fee. Regular economy fliers can still bring a carry-on for free, as well as a small bag.
Schumer says passengers should be able to store bags in overhead bins regardless of the fare they paid.
"They're charging for food, they're charging for big luggage, they're charging for leg room, now they're charging for this? Enough already," said Schumer Sunday.
As WCBS 880's Kelly Waldron reported, Basic Economy tickets will be automatically assigned at check-in and will not guarantee that all travelers in the same reservation will even be seated together.
United spokeswoman Megan McCarthy says fliers who want to bring a carry-on have the option of paying regular economy prices.
