US airline introduces carry-on fees

American budget carrier Spirit has become the first carrier to charge passengers for carry-on baggage.

Passengers who wish to place items in the airline's overhead bins will now be charged $20 (€15) for the privilege, Spirit announced on April 5. The $20 tariff is for members of Spirit's frequent flyer club, however - non members will have to pay $30 (22.50), or $45 (€34) if they have not reserved carry-on space online or by phone in advance.

Bags that can be placed underneath the seats (where possible), remain free of charge, as do strollers, walking aides, umbrellas, food and coats.

Although travelers have vehemently criticized the move, Spirit says that it is just trying to simplify the travel process.

"In addition to lowering fares even further, this will reduce the number of carry-on bags, which will improve inflight safety and efficiency by speeding up the boarding and deplaning process, all of which ultimately improve the overall customer experience," said Spirit's Chief Operating Officer Ken McKenzie. "Bring less; pay less. It's simple."

While Spirit is the first airline to announce such plans, history suggests that other carriers are likely to follow suit. In the scramble to introduce checked bag fees, most major US carriers announced their new policies within a month of one another, while European carriers have on several occasions matched the "ancillary" fees introduced by Ryanair.

http://www.spiritair.com