New fees coming: Canadian North changes baggage allowances

Canadian North is changing its baggage fees and allowances, putting the northern airline's policy closer in line with its bigger competitors.

According to a news release, the checked baggage weight allowance will drop to 50 pounds from 70 pounds. Bags weighing between 51 and 70 pounds will be subject to a $25 excess/overweight baggage fee.

The changes to the number of bags passengers can check for free vary based on the fares.

The lowest regular fares will now include only one free checked bag, rather than two. Travellers who purchase a seat sale ticket will no longer get any free checked bags. The charge for the first checked bag is $25.

Super-flex fares will now include three free checked bags, increased from two, while flex fares will continue to include two free checked bags.

The airline says the new policy should lead to a decrease in checked baggage, which will improve cargo capacity and lessen delays, as well as decrease the amount of fuel burned.

"Canadian North's checked baggage fees and allowances will now align with those of other major airlines which have already implemented similar changes over the past several years," according to the news release.

Air Canada and WestJet introduced $25 fees for checked bags on economy fares in 2014.

Canadian North's baggage changes will affect flights booked after June 15, for travel after July 15.