The airlines are constantly looking for new ways to hit their passengers with extra fees. As of April 5th, Spirit Airlines began charging for carry-on bags that are placed in the overhead bin. That's right, while you can still place one personal item under the seat in front of you for free, if you opt to use the overhead compartment, it'll cost you between $20.00 and $45.00 per item each way. Read the company's press release by clicking here.
Of course, the airline also charges between $15.00 and $45.00 each for your checked bags for both domestic and international flights. While Spirit Airlines is considered a smaller airline, chances are it won't be long before the other major airlines adopt this new carry-on bag fee. After all, airlines like United Airlines are notorious for hitting passengers with as many extra fees as possible, above and beyond the base ticket price.
If you're a Spirit Fare Club member, you'll be charged less to use the overhead compartment in the cabin, as well as for your checked luggage. Plus, the airline claims to also have lowered their already discounted fares slightly.
So, it looks like if the airlines get their way, if your personal items don't fit under the seat in front of you, you'll need to shell out some more cash as a passenger. The good news is that breathing aboard the aircraft, and using the restroom are still free (at least for now).
(Updated: April 8, 2010) Whoops...I spoke too soon. According to an article in today's New York Daily News (click here), UK-based RyanAir is now charging passengers to pee. This is getting a bit outrageous!
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