United Airlines is hoping to lure budget conscious travelers away from the likes of Spirit Airlines and Frontier with a similar ‘bare bones’ fare policy.
United’s new ‘basic economy’ will offer lower fares but without the opportunity to pick seats in advance and only one carry-on bag that fits under the seat is allowed.
The new fare structure will go on sale in January for flights in the spring, United said.
Flyers on these tickets will board last and won’t be able to store bags in the overhead bins. Any items too big for underneath the seat will have to be checked in.
The new pared down service is all about customer choice, says 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 option too.
