Faced with a down economy and high fuel costs, airlines have begun charging for things that used to be free on flights. Here is a look at some of the different charges.
US AIRWAYS
$2 to purchasenon-alcoholic drinks
For domestic flights, the first checked bag weighing less than 50 pounds costs $15. The second bag costs $25, with additional bags costing $100. The airline recently announced it is doing away with the in-flight entertainment systems on many of its flights, according to Bloomberg News. The video systems weigh about 500 pounds, increasing fuel use. The airline also announced a $2 charge for non-alcoholic drinks.
UNITED
$25 for a second bag
Until Aug. 17 a passenger’s first checked bag is free and a second checked bag costs $25. Beginning Aug. 18 the first checked bag costs $15 and the second $25. Passengers will be charged additionally for checking more than two bags, or if any bag exceeds 50 pounds or 62 linear inches. Certain “special items” such as sports equipment are also subject to a charge.
AMERICAN
$20 to book by phone
Passengers booking reservations by phone now will face a $20 fee. The airline now charges $6 instead of $5 for fresh food (sandwiches, for example) and liquor, and also charges for snacks. There is a $15 fee for the first checked bag and $25 for the second. Bags Three to Five cost $100 each, and Bag Six and beyond cost $200 apiece. Passengers checking in curbside will no longer have to pay $2 to do so.
DELTA
$25 to redeem miles
For domestic flights, a first checked item is free of cost, while a second costs $25. A surcharge of $25 has been added to redeem frequent-flier-mile tickets for domestic flights and flights to Canada; a $50 surcharge has been added for international flights.
NORTHWEST AIRLINES
$50 to use miles on a transatlantic flight
Frequent fliers now have to hand over a temporary $25 charge to redeem awarded tickets for domestic flights, according to The Associated Press. The price increases to $50 for transatlantic flights and $100 for flights crossing the Pacific. The airline also will start charging $15 for a first checked bag.
SOUTHWEST
No new fees
Southwest does not charge extra for checked baggage or for snacks.
