USAir to charge for second bag

Looks like the 500 mile min is not the only thing they are changing. Got this e-mail today:

*Today, US Airways announced a change to our baggage policy. Beginning May 5, 2008, well charge $25 for a second checked bag. The new fee applies to travel on or after May 5 for tickets purchased on or after February 26, 2008.

Were making these changes to offset record fuel prices and rising airline related expenses. We simply must make changes to the way we do business to provide all of you with the high level of service that youve come to expect from US Airways. Also, were doing all we can to keep fares low. With this policy change, were able to give you the choice to avoid the fee and pack fewer items. With fewer bags to process, we save both money and fuel and can pass that savings on to you.

Dividend Miles Preferred members are exempt from the fee, and were also waiving the fee for:

Confirmed First Class and Envoy passengers
Passengers with Star Alliance Silver or Gold status
Active military personnel in uniform and with ID
Unaccompanied minors
Passengers checking personal assistive devices
Need more details?
Weve put together a list of questions and answers with policy details and other information. Or, you can take a look at our baggage policies.

Thank you for supporting US Airways. We appreciate your business and look forward to serving you again soon. *