Major US carrier launches new ‘basic economy’ fare
United Airlines is hoping to lure passengers away from budget carriers like Spirit and Frontier with a ‘bare bones’ fare.
Its new ‘basic economy’ ticket will be cheaper but passengers won’t be able to pick their seats in advance and they’ll only be allowed one small carry-on bag.
The new fare will go on sale in January for flights from next spring, United said.
Basic economy passengers will board last and won’t be able to store bags in the overhead bins. Any items too big to fit underneath the seat will have to be checked in.
The new pared down service is all about customer choice, said Julia Haywood, United’s executive vice president and chief commercial officer. "Customers have told us that they want more choice, and basic economy delivers just that. By offering low fares while also offering the experience of traveling on our outstanding network, with a variety of onboard amenities and we are giving our customers an additional travel."
Basic economy passengers will still get access to other standard economy services such as food and Wi-Fi where available.
Rival Delta already has a basic economy fare and American Airlines is planning to launch a similar one.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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