Frequent Flyer

United to Discount Its Luxury 'Travel Options'


Tim Winship
Tim Winship

    How many ways can airlines separate consumers from their money? It used to be that the price of a ticket was all-inclusive. Today, the ticket price is just the beginning. Next come the [% 2623262 | | fees and surcharges %] for services that once were part of the basic fare. And then there are the add-on fees for extra-cost items that actually add value to a trip. United has gone furthest in developing this latter type of service, going so far as to brand, as Travel Options, a portfolio of extra services, including Economy Plus, Red Carpet Club airport lounge memberships, Door-to-Door Baggage service, [% 2785818 | | Premier Line %], and [% 2645798 | | Award Accelerator %]. In the long term, United's move may turn out to be a smart one. But their timing couldn't be worse. Selling extra-cost luxuries amid a global economic meltdown is like peddling snowcones during a blizzard. But United's bad timing is creating an opportunity for travelers curious about the upgraded services, but reluctant to pay the full prices. The airline, obviously facing a demand shortfall, is discounting three Travel Options services, as follows:

    • Through December 18, travelers can save 30 percent when upgrading to roomier Economy Plus seats. With the discount, you'll pay an extra $9 to $149 each way, for up to five more inches of legroom.
    • Through January 15, United is offering its Door-to-Door Baggage service for $99 per bag, each way—a 45 percent discount. The service uses FedEx to ship suitcases overnight from your home or office to a destination within the 48 contiguous United States.
    • And also through January 15, United flyers can purchase a one-time pass to a Red Carpet Club airport lounge for $40, a 20 percent discount off the normal rate.



      Are these services worth the extra costs? Maybe. What's almost certain is that there will never be a better time to find out.