United Airlines to start charging for emergency floatation device

CHICAGO - Following in the recent avalanche of additional fees in the airline industry, United Airlines announced that it would start charging customers for the flotation devices on board it's fleet of aircraft.

The inflatable life vests are found under your seat aboard all domestic airlines. They are meant to be used in the event of a emergency water landing and are required by FAA and EASA regulations.

A United spokesperson said that the flotation

devices were "completely optional to purchase for a nominal fee and in the event of an aircraft ditching in the water,  It will be completely up to the customer to access the flotation device under their seat by swiping their credit card in the same way they would for on board entertainment and movies."

The move follows United Airlines decision to charge for all  checked baggage, additional leg room fee and getting your pets to their intended destination alive surcharge.