United Starts Travel-Light Program

United Airlines passengers traveling out of Des Moines, Iowa, are the guinea pigs for the company’s new “Takeoff Fares” program. Those paying the lowest fares will still be allowed to check two suitcases but will be allowed only one carry-on bag beginning Dec. 1, said spokesman Richard Martin. Depending on the test’s success, the requirement eventually may be instituted systemwide. But Martin said there are no definitive plans to expand the one-bag rule beyond Des Moines. The test also forces passengers who choose the lowest fare to use electronic ticketing and pay for their tickets upon making their reservations. Normally, United caps carry-on luggage at two pieces. In starting the program, United, a unit of Chicago-based UAL Corp., is hoping to appeal to its “best” customers, especially business travelers, by giving them more carry-on room and a faster check-in and boarding process. Industry experts said the plan could create a logistical nightmare. Trans World Airlines said it will stay with its two-bag limit. And American Airlines took the opposite tack a month ago by eliminating restrictions on the number of carry-on bags.