The high cost of crude oil in the international market is taking its toll on airlines in the United States. US, most of whom are finding new ways to pass the extra cost to their passengers. One of such is baggage fees, which is fast becoming an unavoidable part of flying in the US as three of the largest carriers now charge$ 15 for a first checked bag. United Airline and US Airways recently announced their new fees three weeks after American Airlines set the precedent for the charge.
Most US carriers already have instituted a $25-charge for checking a second bag. Part of new fees the reflect a stuggling airline industry passing along record fuel prices to passengers in the form of higher fares, fuel surcharges and service charges.
As at last July, Southwest Airlines will be the only US carrier that permits two checked bags for free according to Tom Parsons, air travel expert, who still expects more service fees to come. He also expects the legacy carriers to follow the lead of discount carrier Spirit Spirit Airlines, which now charges extra for seat reservations; $5 for middle seats,$ 10 for window and aisle seats and $15 for exit-row seats. Other airlines also have begun charging for window or aisle seats.
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