Why are airlines getting stricter about excess luggage

safetymom

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Why are airlines getting stricter about 'excess' luggage?
Airlines are so desperate to cut costs, they’re 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 there’s 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."
 
I can see it now ....

A major airline teaming up with Weight Watchers for a cross-promotion. You know, tell the airline your Weight Watchers ID # and save 2% off airfare, and earn frequent flier miles for Weight Watchers dues. You never know -- it could happen!

-- Eric :earsboy:
 
You can't blame the airlines for trying to reduce costs. My husband sells aircraft lighting and weight is one of the main concerns there too. They're trying to squeeze every ounce they can out!!
 
hi
whilst a lot of it is for saving money, some of it is for the health and safety of the baggage handlers. i believe in the u.k. at least there is a limit in weight they are allowed to handle now. :idea:
 

I am just amazed at the amount of stuff people feel the need to haul along with them. I saw a family at MCO last night with THREE luggage carts overflowing with bags for six people. What in God's name do they need with all that luggage?

Anne
 
Not sure if it's an internet rumor but I read SW is getting rid of the magazines on board to save some weight.

Airlines are looking at the fees charged for baggage as an additional revenue stream. Some of the overseas charter airlines limit you to something like 32 pounds for all your luggage combined including carryons.
 
/
is trimming everyone down to 50 pounds, checked bags.

:sunny:
 
As a bus driver, I am amazed as to the weight of some of the luggage. I say nothing unless I just can't lift it. People need to get real as to the weight of their luggage.

I've had some that you have to lift one end,and then lift and shove the other to get it in the luggage bay.

Get real with what you bring, pack with in reason, and send your purchases home via a service like FEDEX , etc.
 
Just another spin on this subject. I am a courier driver, and I constantly ship packages on airlines. These airlines make big money off these packages. Less bagage means more room for other packages, thus creating more income. Just food for thought. :earsboy:
 
Plus Luggage went through a time of bigger is better you can't help but to be at or over 50lb. on some of the bigger bags.
 
tmt martins said:
Plus Luggage went through a time of bigger is better you can't help but to be at or over 50lb. on some of the bigger bags.

Many are..lol... you can believe it.
 
I flew USAirways PIT-LAX today. One drink and no pretzels or peanuts on a 5 hour flight. Usually on cross country flights they serve drinks twice and pass out pretzels. Another cutback.
 
simzac said:
Just another spin on this subject. I am a courier driver, and I constantly ship packages on airlines. These airlines make big money off these packages. Less bagage means more room for other packages, thus creating more income. Just food for thought. :earsboy:

And more income from cargo mens lower fares to the traveling public.

Anne
 
tmt martins said:
Plus Luggage went through a time of bigger is better you can't help but to be at or over 50lb. on some of the bigger bags.

Aure you can. It's called not stuffing it full!

Anne
 
DebbieB said:
I flew USAirways PIT-LAX today. One drink and no pretzels or peanuts on a 5 hour flight. Usually on cross country flights they serve drinks twice and pass out pretzels. Another cutback.

Interesting. I flew Sunday BUF/PHL/MCO and was served pretzels on both legs.

Anne
 
ducklite said:
Interesting. I flew Sunday BUF/PHL/MCO and was served pretzels on both legs.

Anne
WHY? Was your tray table broken??? :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2: :rotfl2:

-- Eric :earsboy:
 
DebbieB said:
I flew USAirways PIT-LAX today. One drink and no pretzels or peanuts on a 5 hour flight. Usually on cross country flights they serve drinks twice and pass out pretzels. Another cutback.

Another reason I will NEVER fly anyone but Southwest. I flew Southwest last night from Orlando to Pittsburgh(2 hour flight) and had 2 drinks and all the snacks I wanted. Plus it only cost me $84 total for this non-stop flight with the DING fare. :cool1:
 














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