WASHINGTON — United Airlines is the first major airline to limit carry-on bags to just one bag for some of its economy passengers, a move being praised by the International Association of Flight Attendants.
United’s new “Basic Economy” will limit buyers of its lowest-cost tickets to a single carry-on bag that must fit under the seat in front of them.
“United’s move to encourage fewer carry-on bags, similar to practices at Frontier and Spirit, will create a safer cabin for passengers and crew,” said AFA International President Sara Nelson in a statement. “Excess bags in the cabin lead to flight attendant injuries, slower boarding times and passenger altercations.”
The flight attendant’s union said a 2010 flight attendant survey documented regular injuries from carry-ons in overhead bins, including strained and pulled muscles in the neck, arms and upper back.
United passengers buying “Basic Economy” tickets will also not get a seat assignment until checking in, and will board in the last boarding group, unless they are a MileagePlus Premier member.
The one carry-on bag limit applies only to passengers who buy United’s “Basic Economy” fare.
The single bag for “Basic Economy” customers is limited to a shoulder bag, backpack, laptop bag or other small item that measures less than 9 inches by 10 inches by 17 inches.
See United’s new “Basic Economy” fare rules here.
