The airline industry has undergone an extensive overhaul in carry-on and checked baggage policies in recent years. US Airways is no exception. Major changes instituted in July 2009 affect the cost and requirements associated with checking luggage on US Airways and affiliated regional providers.
Each US Airways passenger is permitted one carry-on bag and one personal item, which may include a purse, laptop bag or briefcase. These items must fit in overhead bins or under the seat in front of you. The Transportation Security Administration enforces strict regulations regarding carry-on items. Liquids and gels must be placed in a quart-size, clear, plastic, zip-top bag, and each liquid container must be smaller than 3.4 oz. in capacity. Each passenger is allowed to carry on a single quart-size bag.
In July 2009, US Airways began charging passengers $20 for the first checked bag. The second bag will cost you $30, with each additional piece costing $100. This applies to bags under 50 lbs. Luggage weighing more than 50 lbs. will be assessed a $50 to $100 additional surcharge. Bags in excess of 100 lbs. will not be accepted.
Customers can save $5 per piece of baggage checked online. You will also have the opportunity to pay checking fees at this time--$15 for first bag, $25 for the second. Passengers checking more than two bags will be required to check them at the airport. Overweight or oversize luggage will incur additional fees at the check-in facility.
Checked baggage fees may be waived for Dividend Miles Preferred members, Star Alliance Silver and Gold members, travelers coming to and from Europe or Asia, unaccompanied minors, first-class and envoy passengers and active U.S. military personnel presenting ID. Infant strollers and car seats, required medical supplies and equipment, and mobility-assisted devices are all accepted in addition to the checked bag allowance at no additional cost.
An oversize bag is defined by US Airways as greater than 62 inches (length plus width plus height) and will incur an additional $100 fee per bag. Items more 80 inches will not be accepted for checking. US Airways recommends that you ship large baggage or sports items by commercial carrier. Its recommended courier, Sports Express, will pick up luggage at your chosen location and deliver it to your travel destination.
US Airways accepts a maximum $3,300 liability for loss, delay or damage to checked baggage per ticketed passenger. This policy is valid for passengers traveling solely within the U.S. Articles deemed as fragile, perishable or liquid may not qualify for this benefit.
