Comments on: American Airlines Checked Baggage Fees

By: Carrie Thompson

Carrie Thompson — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 15:27:51 +0000

Southwest did a great job of “fuel hedging” before the other major airlines did so. Now that gas prices are getting back to being somewhat reasonable, many of the airlines are dropping those fees. I’ll keep you guys posted on what American does.

By: Chad

Chad — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 09:12:55 +0000

Southwest seems to be able to make a profit without charging for checked bags. Its just another couple of hundred million dollars for American to poorly manage. I used to fly 2-3 times per week and American struggles in every aspect of their business, except increasing costs.

By: Carrie Thompson

Carrie Thompson — Wed, 28 May 2008 17:48:36 +0000

If the airline can’t pay their bills because they aren’t making enough money as it is, they’re going to have to close anyway. This is a last ditch effort to prevent that from happening.

I’m sorry you had to cancel your trip.

By: Noemi

Noemi — Wed, 28 May 2008 17:02:10 +0000

Yo no pinso que no es justo cobrar por las maletas or cobrar extra. Esto se aplica para las personas que compraron sus tique antes de esta resolucion tambien or despues? I have my tickes to Dominican Republic two months ago and I’m not traveling, because we have money in abundancia is because is a necesity. If you starte charging for luggages be ready for people stop traveling and then the airline would has to close.

By: Carrie Thompson

Carrie Thompson — Fri, 23 May 2008 04:40:24 +0000

I agree that is probably the loophole. Prepare to arrive another 45 minutes early while everyone has their bags searched by the TSA…and prepare to leave 45 minutes late because of all those gate checks.

By: Derek

Derek — Fri, 23 May 2008 01:39:05 +0000

I’m ok with American (and other airlines) increasing fares to meet costs, but by tagging checked luggage, they are going to encourage more passengers to try to bring carry on. Once the overhead bins are full, then more passengers will have to gate check. And this will delay flights. I agree charge everyone a fuel fee or raise prices.

Of course gate check could be the way to avoid the fee.