Midwest Express Airlines today announced changes to its service fee structure intended to help the airline continue to offer competitive fares in an extremely cost-conscious industry environment. The fees also apply to Skyway Airlines, The Midwest Express Connection.

The changes include:

- A $20 service fee for paper tickets when electronic tickets are available; the fee applies to tickets purchased on or after December 4, 2002—An increase to $80 in the fee to replace lost tickets, with the fee reduced to $40 if the ticket is found within 60 days. The fee applies to tickets reported lost on or after December 4, 2002 - and also applies to lost Frequent Flyer certificates and tickets—A $40 one-way charge for children ages 5-11 traveling without an adult on tickets purchased on or after December 4, 2002—An increase to $75 in the one-way fee to transport pets in kennels on the same flight as a passenger; the fee applies to tickets purchased on or after December 4, 2002—Standardizing excess and overweight baggage fees at $50 for each piece exceeding the allowance. Special baggage items (excluding properly packaged golf clubs) will also be charged $50. Charges for oversized baggage are being eliminated. These fees apply to travel on or after December 4, 2002.

“Our intent is to provide choices and options for our customers, and charge an appropriate fee for specialized services that add value to their travel experience, said Thomas J. Vick, senior vice president and chief marketing officer for Midwest Express. Vick pointed out that the new fees are either consistent with or less than those charged by most U.S. carriers. For example, most airlines currently charge $100 for lost tickets, with no refund if the lost ticket is later located.

Midwest Express Airlines features nonstop jet service to major destinations throughout the United States. Astral Aviation, Inc. - its wholly owned subsidiary - operates Skyway Airlines, The Midwest Express Connection, which offers connections to Midwest Express as well as point-to-point service between select markets on regional jet and turboprop aircraft. Together, the airlines offer service to 53 cities.

——-