United Airlines will also charge for 1st checked bag

UAL Corp's United Airlines on Thursday became the latest airline to begin charging $15 to check a single bag on domestic flights, matching the controversial fee launched in May by AMR Corp's American Airlines as the industry struggles to offset soaring fuel prices.

The parent of the No. 2 U.S. airline also said it raised the fee it charges to check three or more bags, overweight bags or items that require special handling to $125 from $100, or to $250 from $200, depending on the item.

The changes apply to customers who purchase a ticket on or after June 13 for travel within the United States and to or from Canada, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands on or after August 18. The $15 fee does not apply to some customers who are members of United's loyalty programs.

United's single-bag fee is the second such fee launched by a major airline. The airline was the first legacy carrier to implement a $25 fee to check a second bag.

The new fees are part of a broader effort by airlines to charge passengers for services that used to be included in the price of a ticket. Some carriers charge for in-flight perks such as meals, drinks and snacks.