Air Canada to charge $25 for checking second bag

Following the lead of other North American carriers, Air Canada announced that passengers will have to pay $25 to check a second piece of luggage on all economy-class flights within North America. The change, it said, was prompted by "record high and unrelenting fuel costs."

The change will take effect on July 15, and applies to customers who buy Tango and Tango plus tickets. The new charge won't apply to business-class travellers or international flights.

Although WestJet has not announced that it will follow suit, do not be surprised if they make a similar announcement in the coming weeks.

Continental, Delta, Northwest, United and US Airways announced earlier this week that their passengers would be charged for checking a second bag.