Since 2008, many major airlines have started charging fees for checked baggage – now Spirit Airlines is taking those bag fees one step further. In a move sure to be watched closely by larger carriers, Florida-based regional carrier Spirit Airlines will be charging airline passengers for carry-on luggage. No word yet if the airlines will be offering no credit check payday loans to cover the cost of the new fees.

Spirit Airlines is a no-frills carrier

The airline service offered by Spirit Airlines is decidedly no-frills. With a $ 40 yearly membership, some customers can get Spirit airline fares for as little as $ 9 each way. Average Spirit airline fares range from $ 50 to $ 150 each way. Spirit Airlines charges $ 25 for one checked bag, and $ 45 for a second checked bag. Spirit Airlines says they will drop their average fare by $ 40 at the same time they start the charge. The dropped fare may prevent customers from needing payday loans no fax just to pay for their bags.

Carry-on bags incur a charge on Spirit Airlines

Since many major airlines have started charging for checked baggage, many customers are carrying on more luggage. On August 1, Spirit Airlines will begin charging for carry-on luggage. Spirit Airline “members” will be charged $ 20. Passengers that are not members will be charged $ 30 for pre-registered bags. At the gate, passengers will be charged $ 45 for their one allowed carry-on bag. Spirit Airlines is also considering removing the front-counter service at some airports, replacing that service with self-service kiosks only. Spirit Airlines will not charge for “personal items” that fit in the space under the seat in front of passengers.

Will major airlines do the same as Spirit Airlines?

No major air carrier has yet said they will also use these fees. Southwest and JetBlue have been the only two carriers to not use checked-bag fees. Airlines received $ 700 million for checked baggage in the third quarter of last year. In that same time, an average ticket price dropped by 14%.

Sources:

Market Watch (See: http://www.marketwatch.com/story/spirit-airlines-to-charge-for-carry-on-bags-2010-04-06)

Chron (See: http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/business/6946265.html)

Tagged with: • •

Filed under: Flight Deals

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!

Possibly related posts