Airline Industry on Track : Major Airlines Enter 2011 with New Fee

Several major airlines are headed into 2011 with new fees, including Charlotte’s major carrier, US Airways.

United Airlines and Continental Airlines are adding a $10 one-way peak travel day surcharge, while American Airlines, Delta and US Airways are adding a $20 roundtrip surcharge.

The airline industry is on track to see its most profitable year in at least a decade, with U.S. profits topping $7 billion. In 2008, the airline industry lost more than $5 billion.

The cost for airfares has gone up and many airlines have been adding fees for luggage, seating and even carry-on bags.

Eyewitness News talked to travelers at Charlotte Douglas International Airport about the latest hit to their wallets.

“Baggage is already $25, so it’s like what else? Pillows and blankets, (are) they going to charge for that, too?” Jay Ly said.

Traveler Peggy Behar said people will just have to accept the fees and spend the money.

“I guess if you really have to travel, you’re going to have to pay the fees,” she said.

Some airlines already charge $7-$10 for pillows and blankets. Experts predict major airlines may also add a fuel surcharge for passengers, since the cost of crude oil has drastically increased.

Airline Baggage Fees Make It Difficult for Tourists to Travel

Passenger planes are worried about baggage fees applied by the airline. The airline has decided to make the whole process worse for passengers with memunggut cost for carry-on baggage.

Passengers are still allowed a purse or briefcase at their feet, and items such as cameras, pet containers and diaper bags are still free of charge, but you can no longer go on a weekend trip with a carry-on to save money.

Paying $20 per bag per flight is enough to persuade many passengers to pack a carry-on suitcase. But now on Spirit Airlines we will be charged for that too. Experts think the new fee will outrage consumers and make traveling less desirable than it already is, but they also point out that perhaps other major airlines will not implement carry-on fees due to backlash. Read more

Airline Passengers Face New Stealth Fare Rises

Millions of passengers face stealth fare rises as a number of major airlines, including British Airways, impose new charges for checking in more than one bag.

Desperate to raise extra cash, airlines have cut the limit on baggage in a move which could add at least £100 to the cost of a holiday for a family of four.
Read more