First Air follows other airlines' lead with tightened baggage policy

First Air is the latest airline to tighten its restrictions on baggage.

The northern airline has released its new baggage policy. Many passengers will now have to pay for their second checked bag. The weight allowance per bag is also dropping to 50 pounds from 70 pounds on most fares.

The excess weight fee starts at $25 but goes up to $100. The charges for additional bags also start at $25 and go up.

The fees will depend on what type of fare the passenger purchased. Travellers who buy the most expensive, "super-flex" fare will be allowed three free bags. The cheaper, "saver" fare will only allow one free checked bag. Passengers who book with a beneficiary fare will still receive two free 70-pound bags.

The changes are similar to ones introduced by Canadian North, First Air's codeshare partner, last month. Air Canada and WestJet introduced $25 fees for checked bags on economy fares in 2014.

The new baggage policy will apply to flights booked as of July 15, for travel as of Aug. 1.