United Airlines Introduces New Basic Economy Fares

United Airlines is introducing new basic economy fares. As is commonplace on other airlines, this involves certain restrictions on hand baggage, seat selection and boarding.

Customers with basic economy tickets will only have their seat automatically allocated to them at check-in on their day of departure. Passengers with the new fare will only be able to board the aircraft last and can only carry one small item of hand luggage into the cabin (22 cm x 25 cm x 43 cm), around the size of a handbag or laptop bag. Furthermore, basic economy tickets can only be rebooked or cancelled within 24 hours of purchase. Exceptions can be made for frequent flyers with that status in the Mileage Plus program, or another bonus program of the Star Alliance. Only the service onboard remains unaffected, with meals, drinks and use of the in-flight entertainment system included, plus free Wi-Fi.