Matches US Airways, United, Delta

Northwest Airlines has become the fourth major airline in recent weeks to announce plans for a new fee on a passengers’ second piece of checked luggage. Northwest has matched the new baggage policies of US Airways, United and Delta, declaring that it will assess a $25 fee for the second checked bag effective for coach class travel on or after May 5. Northwest is also raising the fee from $80 to $100 per bag for a third or more checked bags, and boosting the charge for overweight bags (i.e., more than 50 pounds) from $25 to $50. The policies also apply on Northwest Airlink feeder partners including Mesaba, Pinnacle and Compass Airlines. Like the other major airlines, Northwest will exempt some passengers from the second-bag fee. WorldPerks Silver, Gold and Platinum members, SkyTeam elite customers and persons paying full Y or B fares can still check two bags with no extra fee. First class passengers’ free checked baggage allowance remains at three pieces.