Check this out: The latest luggage fee numbers, as reported by the federal government, show that the major airlines are collecting less for our checked suitcases. They haven’t returned to the early 2007 levels, which were still pretty reasonable, but well off the highs reached in the second and third quarter of 2010.

Elliott Advocacy is underwritten by Sodexo North America. Sodexo North America Sodexo North America is part of a global, Fortune 500 company with a presence in 80 countries. Sodexo is a leading provider of integrated food, facilities management and other services that enhance organizational performance, contribute to local communities and improve quality of life for millions of customers in corporate, education, healthcare, senior living, sports and leisure, government and other environments daily. Learn more at Sodexo North America Sodexo North America is part of a global, Fortune 500 company with a presence in 80 countries. Sodexo is a leading provider of integrated food, facilities management and other services that enhance organizational performance, contribute to local communities and improve quality of life for millions of customers in corporate, education, healthcare, senior living, sports and leisure, government and other environments daily. Learn more at Sodexoinsights.com

What’s going on?



A few theories …

• Airlines are not being as strict with their baggage policies. That may be true, but I doubt it. At a time like this, when every airline is pinching pennies, I’m more inclined to believe agents are being rewarded for charging the most luggage fees.

• Passengers are traveling lighter. Oh, yeah. If you believe that, I’ve got a bridge to sell you.

• Air travelers are trying to carry more on the plane. That’s my favorite theory. I think passengers are unwilling to shell out more money for their tickets, and are trying to take it all on the plane with them. Pity the flight attendants.

These numbers will almost certainly drop because of the Transportation Department’s new disclosure requirements for baggage fees.

For airlines, it looks as if the gravy train that was baggage fees has left the station.

Share this:

Tweet



Print

