American Airlines announced this week that it will follow its major US rivals United, Delta and Northwest in charging passengers for every second piece of checked baggage (see online news March 27).
The move has been brought on by the rising cost of fuel. It means that passengers must now pay $25 for the second piece of checked baggage rising to a hefty $100 per piece for subsequent items.
The surcharge takes effect on May 13 but the following passengers will be exempt:
- International passengers making a direct connection (“international” covers flights beyond the US, Canada, Virgin Islands or Puerto Rico)
- Full fare economy, first or business class passengers
- High ranking loyalty club members either of American’s scheme or that of Oneworld.