I wonder if Amtrak will start charging for a view.
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US Airways adds fee for
some window, aisle seats
$5 charge (at least) coming next month
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This is not as big a deal as it seems. Right now, US reserves some of the forward window and aisle seats for elite flyers. Only Dividend Miles Silver and above (and companions) can pre-select those premium seating locations. Non-elites are relegated to middles or windows and aisles aft of the wing exit rows. That preference will continue for the elites with no charge. What is changing is that at check-in, non-elite passengers will now be able to purchase access to the premium seats for a fee ($5 or more depending on flight length). It is similar to the way United sells Economy Plus seating at check-in, but with US the selling point is location only, not added leg room.
BTW, I just flew transcon on United E+. Paid $59 for the privilege. Got 7A (window). Load was 110 on a 120 seat A319. One of the open seats was the middle next to me. What a sweet ride. It was worth every penny!