http://blogs.usatoday.com/sky/
Why are airlines getting stricter about 'excess' luggage?
Airlines are so desperate to cut costs, theyre looking to for any way possible to reduce the weight of their planes, the Chicago Tribune (free registration) reports. Lighter planes, of course, mean lower fuel costs. "We fly so many flights a day that if we can get 100 pounds off every flight, we save millions of dollars a year," says American Airlines Capt. Steve Chealander, manager of flight operations efficiency. The push to reduce weight is one reason that airlines have become stricter about enforcing policies regarding excess luggage. But carriers are also looking for more discreet options, such as carrying less drinking water and replacing glass bathroom mirrors with lighter acrylic versions. Analysts say the even the small costs help, but say theres a limit on how much money can be saved by such changes. Ray Neidl of Calyon Securities says the airlines are doing a commendable job, but they can't change things overnight."
Why are airlines getting stricter about 'excess' luggage?
Airlines are so desperate to cut costs, theyre looking to for any way possible to reduce the weight of their planes, the Chicago Tribune (free registration) reports. Lighter planes, of course, mean lower fuel costs. "We fly so many flights a day that if we can get 100 pounds off every flight, we save millions of dollars a year," says American Airlines Capt. Steve Chealander, manager of flight operations efficiency. The push to reduce weight is one reason that airlines have become stricter about enforcing policies regarding excess luggage. But carriers are also looking for more discreet options, such as carrying less drinking water and replacing glass bathroom mirrors with lighter acrylic versions. Analysts say the even the small costs help, but say theres a limit on how much money can be saved by such changes. Ray Neidl of Calyon Securities says the airlines are doing a commendable job, but they can't change things overnight."
