• The Detroit News, Wednesday, January 13, 2010 10:32 AM

Following an earlier announcement by US Airways, both Delta and Continental will increase fees for checking luggage, Nathan Hurst reports. The first piece of luggage will run $25 if checked at the airport, up from $15, and a second will cost $35, up from $25. There's a slight discount for paying the fees in advance online.

Analysts expect carriers such as American and United to join the party soon, leaving Southwest Airlines mostly alone in its policy of two free pieces of luggage per passenger. Although Southwest has made great hay of that distinction in its recent marketing efforts, analysts have said the campaign hasn't necessarily boosted business.

Should the increased fee lead to an overabundance of carry-on luggage on a flight, however, passengers whose bags must be checked will not be subject to a charge, says Delta spokeswoman Susan C. Elliott.

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