American Airlines to begin charging for 1st checked bag!

[nell]

I just read on Yahoo that June 15 American will begin charging $15.00 for the first checked bag. They will also be cutting capacity by 11%. I wonder which airline will be next in line.

[Dave M]

I'm sure that the other major carriers will soon start charging for that first bag, too. If they don't, AA will eventually have to back off of its fee for competitive reasons.

I don't mind these additional costs because I know that the horrendous increase in fuel costs has most of the major airlines hemorrhaging financially. There is talk in the business press that AA might file for bankruptcy soon and most of the other major U.S. airlines that have already gone through bankruptcy may have to do it all over again. That would likely mean some wouldn’t survive.

Of bigger concern to me is the significant reduction in capacity being announced in this AA press release, a reduction that matches plans already announced by most other U.S. airlines. With planes already flying at or near capacity, that reduction in available seating will make it easier for airlines to significantly increase fares, which could have a huge impact to travelers' expense budgets! Although I know those coming fare increases are necessary, I don’t like it!

Here are the contents of the press release.

[Dave M]

Here is the updated AA FAQ on fees for checking bags.

["Roger"]

Actually, Spirit Airlines was first - $10 for a checked bag, $20 if you didn't make your reservation online.

Airlines are looking for ways to cover fuel costs with a minimum "price increase" on a ticket. Part of what is going on is that they know people will choose the cheapest ticket online, even if it is only a $5 to $10 savings. So, they want to keep those prices low while finding a way to increase revenue to cover costs. Expect more of this ala carte type of pricing where the real cost of a ticket is not reflected in the online ticket price.

[PigsDad]

Originally Posted by "Roger"

Actually, Spirit Airlines was first - $10 for a checked bag, $20 if you didn't make your reservation online.

Several smaller airlines have been charging for checking luggage for a while. Allegient is another small airline that has that charge.

The point here is that American is the first major airline to go down this road. Not a good sign of things to come.

Kurt

[Carol C]

Wonder when they'll install scales to weigh passengers and charge us for "excess" weight?

On a serious note, since American flies to Carib and MX locales where we like to travel for diving and snorkeling, it's going to be a challenge packing gear & clothes in just one carry-on. I will also long for the days I could schlep material aid to Mexico after a hurricane; sadly I'd be less inclined to do so if I have to pay fees for each checked bag.

[Carolinian]

Actually, the airline that started it was European LCC Ryanair, and most, if not all, European LCC's do it now.

I don't mind this fee since I hate to check luggage anyway and try to fly with just a carryon. The real zinger is Delta which is adding a massive surcharge to award tickets ex-EU. I was quoted a $220 surcharge, over and above ''real'' taxes for a TATL R/T award ticket from Bucharest. Delta has said they intend to take that policy system wide.

I would take American's baggage charge any day over Delta's surcharge.

My favoite baggage policy is that of European LCC EasyJet. They charge for all checked luggage but the only weight restriction on carryons is that one person must be able to heft it into the overhead by himself.

[pjrose]

I guess the $15 isn't so bad - we're flying on miles this year but our "free" flights are hardly that, with the taxes/fees, checked bag charge, and the costs of driving to/from and parking at a distant airport so we could get the (supposedly) free flights.....

Years ago I bought us all nice backpacks with the idea of traveling light (we never were able to manage it). Then after 9/11 the carry-ons got more restrictions, so it was back to checking.

Maybe this year I'll try doing the same as a woman we met at the beach a few years ago - 2 bathing suits, 2 t-shirts, toothbrush/paste, and some undies.

[Carol C]

Originally Posted by pjrose

I guess the $15 isn't so bad - we're flying on miles this year but our "free" flights are hardly that, with the taxes/fees, checked bag charge, and the costs of driving to/from and parking at a distant airport so we could get the (supposedly) free flights.....

Years ago I bought us all nice backpacks with the idea of traveling light (we never were able to manage it). Then after 9/11 the carry-ons got more restrictions, so it was back to checking.

Maybe this year I'll try doing the same as a woman we met at the beach a few years ago - 2 bathing suits, 2 t-shirts, toothbrush/paste, and some undies.

I don't even pack teeshirts anymore. I can usually buy 'em at tourist spots for $10 each, sometimes less. I like to pack 2 bathing suits & 2 pairs of shorts with pockets...dental care stuff, one starter bottle of sunscreen & yes undies!

What about backpacks? Can they still qualify as one's "purse" and if so, how large a backpack? Time to test the waters!

[tmartin1]

Personally, I think this idea stinks! Especially when it's being timed for summer travel. With this new fee, more people will attempt to only carry-on all their items, which means your 'unseasoned' traveler will make it a nightmare for the security lines. Have you ever been behind a family of 6 that you can tell hasn't traveled on an airplane for 2 years? Yikes!

Second, there is not enough carry-on space for the amount of people who will be trying to avoid the checked luggage charge. I've been on flights when overhead space has been filled to capacity. This will result in long delays (and fighting) while flight attendants have to remove carry-ons and check them in. Are they going to try to collect the money at that time if it turns out the overheads are filled?

Theresa

[camachinist]

Just another reason to strategize to keep at least one family member with elite status on your airline of choice

Pat

[Carol C]

Originally Posted by tmartin1

Personally, I think this idea stinks! Especially when it's being timed for summer travel. With this new fee, more people will attempt to only carry-on all their items, which means your 'unseasoned' traveler will make it a nightmare for the security lines. Have you ever been behind a family of 6 that you can tell hasn't traveled on an airplane for 2 years? Yikes!

Second, there is not enough carry-on space for the amount of people who will be trying to avoid the checked luggage charge. I've been on flights when overhead space has been filled to capacity. This will result in long delays (and fighting) while flight attendants have to remove carry-ons and check them in. Are they going to try to collect the money at that time if it turns out the overheads are filled?

Theresa

Wow...really good points you've made! I know there are some very narrow overhead compartments on certain sizes of planes. Filled to capacity with people...as they tend to be...yes, it will be a challenge to get space up top. Arrive early, be among those that board first, and grab your overhead spot before you miss out!

[Dave M]

Originally Posted by Carol C

What about backpacks? Can they still qualify as one's "purse" and if so, how large a backpack?

From AA's website:

Personal items include the following:
Purse

Briefcase

Laptop

Small book-bag style backpack

Other similar items that do not exceed 36 linear inches (length + width + height) will be allowed such as a small tote bag or shoulder bag.

Additional items that will be allowed above and beyond the restrictions listed above include:

- Outer garments such as coats/wraps/hats

- Approved safety seat for lap or ticketed child

- Umbrella stroller for lap or ticketed child

- Diaper bag for lap or ticketed child

- Book or newspaper

- Small bag of food that is consumable

- Assistive devices for passengers such as wheelchairs, walkers and CPAP machines

- Therapeutic oxygen provided by the airline

[Dave M]

Here is a current article (updated today) that summarizes most of the current U.S. airline extra charges for baggage, food, buying from a real person instead of the Internet, etc.

[UWSurfer]

So if they havn't done away with this in November, my wife and I who already have tickets on American will have to pay for our bag(s). I'm increasingly traveling with a single carry on suitcast and backpack these days for trips 3 days or less. I suspect we may adopt this strategy for our week in Maui given how little clothing we need there.

It will be very interesting.
---------------------------

Speaking of nickle and dime'ing, I just flew round trip on Northwest from LA - St. Paul. I was fairly impressed that Northwest was on-time boarding, flying and we even arrived back in LA 10 minutes early. No movie, very uncomfortable seats & "snack" sales ranging from $5 to $10. A small fresh vegtable tray with ranch dressing went for $7. I had it on my return flight back. I was happy with myself for selecting it over the high calorie crap, but had to get over the fact I just paid $7 for probably 50 cents worth of vegetables.

The other thing I noted is I had my "liquids" in my small toiletry bag. LA TSA couldn't care less. St. Paul TSA had me remove them from the bag and put them in to the ziplock bag. I was advised to do this by the TSA agent prior to running it through the xray machine. I did, they were happy and I was on my way. Always interesting to me the vibe of various cities and TSA agents.

[Judy]

Originally Posted by Carol C

On a serious note, since American flies to Carib and MX locales where we like to travel for diving and snorkeling, it's going to be a challenge packing gear & clothes in just one carry-on. I will also long for the days I could schlep material aid to Mexico after a hurricane; sadly I'd be less inclined to do so if I have to pay fees for each checked bag.

Here are the exceptions from AA website:

" The following customers will not be charged a service fee to check a bag provided the bag is within the weight allowance:

* For the first checked bag, customers who buy a ticket before June 15, 2008, or who fly before June 15, 2008
* For the second checked bag, customers who purchased a ticket before May 12, 2008
* Customers traveling on an international itinerary to destinations beyond the U.S., the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, or Canada
* Customers who purchase full-fare tickets in Economy Class
* Customers who purchase Business or First Class tickets
* Customers flying on AA codeshare flights not operated by American Airlines, American Eagle or AmericanConnection®
* Customers traveling on government or military fares
* Military passengers on active duty
* AAdvantage Executive Platinum®, AAdvantage Platinum® or AAdvantage Gold® members
* oneworld Alliance Emerald, Sapphire or Ruby members
* Customers flying on the same reservation as an AAdvantage Executive Platinum, AAdvantage Platinum or AAdvantage Gold member or oneworld Alliance Emerald, Sapphire or Ruby member regardless of frequent flier status or fare type (not applicable to group bookings)
* AAnytime® Economy Class AAdvantage award tickets, MileSAAver(SM) or AAnytime First and Business Class AAdvantage award tickets
* First and Business Class upgrades confirmed prior to check in
* AAirpass travel"

It appears that divers going to the Caribbean and Mexico are safe from the new baggage fees, for the moment. Just stay away from the US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico.

As for taking donations for hurricane victims, try asking the airline for permission for an additional free bag. My sister got one from United to take donations to Africa.

["Roger"]

Originally Posted by UWSurfer

So ..., my wife and I who already have tickets on American will have to pay for our bag(s)...

No, the rule does not apply if you bought your ticket prior to June 15.

[UWSurfer]

Oh good.

Now I only have to worry that they remain in business through our trip.

[Dave M]

Originally Posted by UWSurfer

Oh good.

Now I only have to worry that they remain in business through our trip.

Not a problem. Guaranteed!

American is one of the few major U.S. airlines that have not gone through bankruptcy in recent years. It will probably have to do that to regain competitive financial status. If AA does enter bankruptcy, it's virtually certain that it would still be flying. Expect at least a year or two of continued service while AA puts together and implements a reorganization plan.

[Pit]

Originally Posted by Judy

... customers who buy a ticket before June 15, 2008, or who fly before June 15, 2008

That seems redundant.

[pjrose]

... customers who buy a ticket before June 15, 2008, or who fly before June 15, 2008

Originally Posted by Pit

That seems redundant.

Partly - obviously you can't fly before June 15 unless you bought before June 15 - but you can buy before June 15 and fly after June 15.

[T_R_Oglodyte]

I have to say that I prefer to see airlines increasing revenues with charges for extras (such as carrying luggage) as opposed to general fare increases.

Charging for luggage particularly makes sense, because handling luggage does create extra cost for the airline. With a baggage charge, the cost of handling baggage ends up being borne by those passengers who use that service.

Ultimately, though, I think this is going to head toward some schedule that charges for number of bags and bag size, with some added charges for oversize bags. That reflects the tree cost elements associated with baggage: 1) the labor and facilities required to handle luggage; 2) the added weight resulting from the luggage; and 3) the space the luggage occupies. I also expect that airlines will more aggressively enforce rules about the size of carryon luggage. We might also begin to see space in overhead bins specifically assigned to seats. E.g., there will be a stripes or marking in the bins assigning specific portions of the bin to particular seats.

[gorevs9]

Originally Posted by Carol C

I like to pack 2 bathing suits & 2 pairs of shorts with pockets...dental care stuff, one starter bottle of sunscreen & yes undies!

Maybe it's time to start going to the clothing-optional resorts. I could carry on everything I need in one of those plastic grocery bags

["Roger"]

Originally Posted by gorevs9

Maybe it's time to start going to the clothing-optional resorts. I could carry on everything I need in one of those plastic grocery bags

Oh great. They already charge extra if you want to sit in a seat with extra leg room. Now, in order to save on fuel, they will start charging extra if you want to wear cloths onto the plane.

[mtwingcpa]

Originally Posted by tmartin1

Personally, I think this idea stinks!

Agreed! I certainly have no problem with the airlines attempting to cover costs, but I think this idea will backfire for the reasons you mentioned. And does this mean we'll now have to get to the airport EVEN EARLIER to cope with the related delays?