EVA Air to raise excess baggage fees from Sept. 29

Taipei, Sept. 6 (CNA) Taiwan's major airline EVA Airways will raise excess baggage fees and revise other international baggage charges beginning Sept. 29, citing higher fuel prices and rising global operating costs amid economic and geopolitical pressures.

In a statement posted on its website, the Taiwanese carrier said the changes will apply to international flights with travel dates on or after Sept. 29.

The revised baggage policy covers excess baggage, prepaid excess baggage, overweight and oversized baggage fees. It also covers updated pricing rules, and fees for transporting pets and sports equipment.

Under the new rates, excess baggage fees will increase by between US$20 and US$90 per piece, depending on the route.

According to the airline's revised fee schedule, charges for an extra checked bag on flights to and from Taiwan will range from US$160 to US$390, up from the current US$140 to US$300.

The carrier divides its international network into five pricing zones.

Zone 1 covers Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam and Cambodia.

Zone 2 includes Australia, New Zealand, Micronesia destinations such as Guam and Palau, India and other Asian destinations not included in Zone 1 or Taiwan.

Zone 3 covers Los Angeles, Seattle, San Francisco, Vancouver, Hawaii and the Middle East, while Zone 4 includes the rest of North America, Europe, including Turkey, Africa and Russia.

Zone 5 comprises Central and South America.