After seeing most of its competitors change their fees in the face of runaway fuel costs, Air Jamaica will implement its new baggage charges come July 1. The carrier announced yesterday that it will continue to allow passengers to check up to two bags in economy class at no extra charge, but the baggage allowance for executive will now be three pieces at a maximum weight of 50 pounds (lbs) each. Checked bags weighing 51-70 lbs will incur a charge of US$75 per piece while sporting equipment will no longer be considered as standard checked baggage and baggage fees will apply. American Airlines was one of the first to introduce a US$15 fee for checking a single bag, while requiring US$25 for a second bag. United Airlines and US Airways followed suit, while Delta Air Lines decided to charge a US$25 fee for a second bag. Air Jamaica's charges more mirrored that of Spirit Airlines which now charges passengers US$50 each way per overweight bag between 51 and 70 pounds and for sporting equipment, an increase of $25. Spirit, however, charges US$10 each way for the first piece of checked luggage, if the passenger completes the transaction online, or US$20 at the airport. The charge for a second bag is US$20 each way. Air Jamaica also announced that it would not allow excess baggage during the summer months, running from July 1 to August 31, on flights between New York and Barbados/Grenada and between New York and Kingston, nor will the airline check excess bags on flights from Toronto. Each traveller is permitted one carry-on piece of baggage, which must fit underneath the passenger seat or in the overhead compartment. Reprinted from jamaicaobserver.com