Northwest, Continental match rivals' cost moves

WASHINGTON, April 4 (Reuters) - Northwest Airlines (NWA.N: Quote, Profile, Research) matched rivals on Friday in extending minimum stay requirements for many domestic leisure fares, another move to offset skyrocketing fuel costs.

Fares that formerly carried a one- or two-night minimum stay condition, now require a two- or three-night minimum.

United Airlines, a unit of UAL Corp (UAUA.O: Quote, Profile, Research), led the increase, which has also been matched by Delta Air Lines (DAL.N: Quote, Profile, Research) and American Airlines, a unit of AMR Corp (AMR.N: Quote, Profile, Research).

Continental Airlines (CAL.N: Quote, Profile, Research) on Friday announced for travel beginning May 5 it would charge economy class passengers paying certain fares $25 to check a second bag. It will not apply to premium economy class customers or members of loyalty programs. There is no change for first class and BusinessFirst passengers. Other airlines have imposed the second $25 bag charge. (Reporting by John Crawley)