Wednesday, April 7, 2010

Spirit Airlines will now charge for carry-on bags

As of 2008, many major airlines have started charging fees for checked baggage – now Spirit Airlines is taking those checked bag fees one step further Spirit Airlines can be taking the two year old checked baggage fee one step further. Spirit Airlines is making headlines by preparing to charge customers for carry-on bags. There has been no word if the airline is going to also offer installment payday loans to cover the new fees.

Spirit Airlines is really a no-frills carrier

The airline service offered by Spirit Airlines is decidedly no-frills. Some customers can get Spirit Airline fares for as little as $ 9 each way, but only if they pay a $ 40 yearly membership. Each way, an average Spirit Airlines ticket costs $ 50 to $ 150. Spirit Airlines charges $ 25 for one checked bag, and $ 70 for two. To prevent customers needingno faxing payday loans to pay for their travel, Spirit says it will drop average fees by $ 40.

Spirit Airlines will charge carry-on fees

Since many major airlines have started charging for checked baggage, many customers are carrying on more luggage. On the first of August, Spirit Airlines will charge for those bags as well. Spirit Airline “members” could be charged $ 20. Pre-registering the carry-on bag will price $ 30. Non-registered bags will price $ 45 at the gate. Spirit Airlines is also considering replacing front counter service with self-service kiosks. ”Personal items” that will fit within the space under the seat in front of you will not be charged.

Will major airlines do the very same as Spirit Airlines?

Major airline carriers have not yet said if they plan in advance to follow Spirit Airlines with these charges. JetBlue and Southwest airlines have not yet started charging for checked baggage. In the third quarter of last year, checked baggage fees brought in $ 700 million to airlines. Average ticket prices dropped by 14% in that same period of time.

Sources:

Market Watch

Chron



No comments: