I agree that I'd rather see a fee for any carryon larger than a laptop or handbag. I'm so tired of watching people lug all kinds of carryons on board and hold up the loading process.

But charging for even the first checked bag seems a bit outrageous to me --obviously they're trying to encourage MORE carryons, not less.

Meanwhile, what is happening to AA, my long time favorite airline? Next month I'm NOT using them for the first time in something like 20 years for a domestic flight. Trying either Ft. Myers, Miami, or Ft. Lauderdale round trip to NYC was all more than double the cost of Delta, even booking months ahead.

Here is a reality on American Airlines.

It costs you $15 to pack a tube of toothpaste.

You can't carry it on the plane. You can't pack it for free.

Think about that.

I can understand the need to recoup monies from increased fuel costs.

But I wonder....

If oil drops back below 100/barrel (yes I'm dreaming), would the airlines scale back on these price increases?

I doubt it.

"obviously they're trying to encourage MORE carryons, not less."

Yes, because from the airline's perspective, it makes sense. Fewer carry-ons require less airline personnel, resulting in savings in salary, work comp claims, health benefits, etc.

Also, people tend to pack lighter for carry-ons, because of space limitations and because they have to lug those bags around themselves. Lighter bags means less fuel use, resulting in more savings for the airlines.

To them (the airlines) it makes sense.

The checked baggage fees and the TSA liquid rules do put people in a bit of a spot don't they.

And what about the poor souls who bring carry-ons only to be told they have to check their bags because the carry-on space in the plane is full? Will those people get charged too because AA allowed other people to bring on more than their allotment?

Question: I paid $15 for my suitcase. It had not arrived with me. It was found in another airport.

So, my question is, do I pay additional $15 to fly it to my airport?

We have paid considerably more for airfare in the past two months (I can understand this with the cost of fuel) but that should cover the increased costs, not adding fees for everything besides paying higher fares. Drives me crazy!!

$15 for a tube of toothpaste, or a nail scissors, or a picnic knife.
And more carryon crammers means more conflict among already stressed passengers. I can't imagine how someone (and I don't believe it was George Bush) thought this would be a good idea-definitely not good press- for the company.