Frequently the folks who add their clever comments to online stories disagree on absolutely everything -- whether Barack Obama is a Muslim, or whether the sun rose this morning -- whether or not it has anything to do with the news story itself.

Today, though, there is a nearly unanimous chorus of jubilation in the comments about this morning's news: RDU airport will get its first daily nonstop to the West Coast in a long time starting on the morning of Aug. 15, when a United Airlines Boeing 737 takes off for San Francisco.

As a silicon valley startup (uservoice) who's just opened an office in downtown Raleigh this is GREAT news! It removes the only major issue we've had with growing our team in NC. - Richard White

Thank you thank you thank you thank you!!!! I live in both San Francisco (I work for a Silicon Valley startup) and Durham, and y'all've just made my day! - Alex Leviton  ... [MORE]

United Airlines is trying a new approach to checked-bag fees.

Customers who pay a $249 annual fee will be able to check two bags any time they fly for no additional charge. The subscription also will cover checked bags for up to eight companions traveling under the same confirmation number.

United started an industry trend last year of charging $25 for a second checked bag to offset weaker sales during the downturn. U.S. carriers collected nearly $670 million in baggage fees during the second quarter, the Department of Transportation reported.

The Chicago-based airline noted in a news release that the deal, called Premier Baggage, is also available as a gift.

The great thing about this modern age is that if you feel wronged -- if an airline breaks your guitar, say, and refuses to give you satisfaction -- you no longer have to shut up and take it. Indeed, you can fire back in a highly effective way.

(Thanks, Doug.)