United Installing Larger Overhead Bins in Many Planes
Goal is to eliminate most or all luggage checking at gate >>
by: Harvey Chipkin
United Airlines is installing larger overhead bins on many of its planes in an effort to end pre-boarding issues when travelers often have to check luggage at the gate. The carrier expects to add the bins to about 80 percent of its fleet by the middle of the next decade. Most of the updates will be undertaken on single-aisle domestic aircraft. Many of those planes currently have bin space for about one bag for every two passengers. The upgrades will also touch some international widebodies. New bins on Boeing 787-9 aircraft, for example, will expand capacity by 65 bags. Tony Enqvist, chief customer officer, referred to ending gate checks of bags as his “dream.” United’s basic economy fares have strict baggage policies, not allowing passengers to bring full-sized carry-on bags on board. That will not change for now, according to Enqvist.
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