Somehow, I think it's a ploy to spur lagging sales in the travel bags sector. Every once in a while, there needs to be a change so there is a reason for travelers to buy luggage. Otherwise, how do these companies afford to open new stores every year and grow comps?
2
Air travel has become more and more of a hassle, more expensive, less convenient, more crowded. How much more do the airlines think people will take?
1
Airlines are the poster child of bad management.
This is about profit: smaller carry-on bags equals more checked bags equals more revenue. Faster boarding equals shorter ground time equals better aircraft utilization equals more revenue.
1
If the airlines had come close to enforcing current carry-on size limits, the new rules would not have been necessary. Are they going to be stricter enforcing the new size limits?
1
I agree with many of the commenters that the airlines have to enforce the rules already there. They are trying to get by with minimal staff to enforce rules and educate passengers, then roll their eyes when there's chaos during boarding, as if that's something that doesn't happen thousands of times a day.
You can carry a lot in a rollerboard that is the appropriate size and which fits efficiently into the overheads, augmented by a second bag that needn't rob you of leg room. However, many people don't know how to do that and the airlines don't help passengers learn.
The airlines sure know how to communicate with me when they want to sell me something, but they don't tell passengers how to fly in a way that makes everyone more comfortable.
You can carry a lot in a rollerboard that is the appropriate size and which fits efficiently into the overheads, augmented by a second bag that needn't rob you of leg room. However, many people don't know how to do that and the airlines don't help passengers learn.
The airlines sure know how to communicate with me when they want to sell me something, but they don't tell passengers how to fly in a way that makes everyone more comfortable.
1
Yes, a standard size carry on is needed! I also agree with another comment that your carry on should be stored over your assigned seat. It is so annoying when you take use a proper size carry on and selfish passenger(s) with extra carry ons start unloading their extra luggage in any free bin as they walk down the aisle.
If the universal size becomes standard there should be better way for the attendants to enforce it because they are constantly hassled when all they want to do is get the luggage stowed so the plane can tale off on time.
If the universal size becomes standard there should be better way for the attendants to enforce it because they are constantly hassled when all they want to do is get the luggage stowed so the plane can tale off on time.
I just fly on Southwest. Checked bag is free.
No Problem.
No Problem.
2
There are some of problems with the current carry on proposal. First, the airlines clearly want you to pay for checked baggage as the fees are far more profitable then having them included in the ticket price for which the airlines must pay a higher tax on their revenue. This is the reason why they want smaller carry ons. Everyone will have to check a bag thus adding to a very lucrative income stream.
I recently purchased an international sized carry-on. (It takes careful planning to get you need in one of these bags.)These are smaller than the present US version, but people are still dragging huge bags through the aisles without even a comment from any airline personnel. Now that the airlines have farmed out the short haul flights to supposedly "independent" airlines corporations that operate solely in their name, the carry on problem is even worse. These "commuter" aircraft are so tight that they not fit for man nor beast and absolutely nothing fits in the overhead.
This proposed regulation for smaller bags is nothing but an attempt by the airline industry to get deeper into the customers pockets. Nothing will get easier for the consumer. They airlines could give a rat's behind whether we all have a place for our carry ons. Smaller bags will be of no use without enforcement and frankly, the airlines and their staff have absolutely no interest in being baggage cops. They just want the money.
I recently purchased an international sized carry-on. (It takes careful planning to get you need in one of these bags.)These are smaller than the present US version, but people are still dragging huge bags through the aisles without even a comment from any airline personnel. Now that the airlines have farmed out the short haul flights to supposedly "independent" airlines corporations that operate solely in their name, the carry on problem is even worse. These "commuter" aircraft are so tight that they not fit for man nor beast and absolutely nothing fits in the overhead.
This proposed regulation for smaller bags is nothing but an attempt by the airline industry to get deeper into the customers pockets. Nothing will get easier for the consumer. They airlines could give a rat's behind whether we all have a place for our carry ons. Smaller bags will be of no use without enforcement and frankly, the airlines and their staff have absolutely no interest in being baggage cops. They just want the money.
2
When I fly from the USA to an overseas location I buy my ticket from a major overseas carrier. The service is better, the seats more comfortable, the food is better, and the overhead bin is deep enough that it fits my large bag (wheels facing out) while my small bag (with my laptop) easily goes under the seat in front of me. I don't pay the least fare possible but I do pay the least for that airline and I don't feel I'm being cheated.
My last air trip within the USA was from Colorado to California and I was not near as comfortable on that very short flight as I was when on a very long flight from Colorado to Europe/Asia on a foreign carrier. It is what it is.
My last air trip within the USA was from Colorado to California and I was not near as comfortable on that very short flight as I was when on a very long flight from Colorado to Europe/Asia on a foreign carrier. It is what it is.
I will have to purchase a different carry-on, but airlines and travel websites had better inform people as they make their airline ticket purchases, so that the transition is fair. Airlines seem to be trying to create a miserable travel experience in order to see if they can get people to pay extra fees for various types of better service. It's crazy. They are now a monopoly that can change extra and provide less--and how am I to make a change? One way, I drive more--but I also bought a hybrid.
2
The agents do not enforce the existing rules, so a more stringent rule won't make a difference. . . unless it is made clear that it will be enforced. And that extra fees will be charged to those who delay the process by trying to lug oversize/overweight luggage into the cabin.
I feel like others who actually do check their bigger bag(s) and carry on small bag of some sort - then to be told to stick it under the seat while some massive overweight "carryon" is shoved into the overhead bin above my head.
I feel like others who actually do check their bigger bag(s) and carry on small bag of some sort - then to be told to stick it under the seat while some massive overweight "carryon" is shoved into the overhead bin above my head.
5
Great, now it will take less time at security check, quicker in and out of the aircraft. Glad they finally will either enforce the already limits or new ones will be pointed out.
2
as others have stated, i just don't understand how smaller bags will solve the problem. Current sizing isn't enforced so unenforced smaller sizing won't change anything. It is increasingly annoying to me that I follow the size requirements and yet there isn't room for my bag because others have bags that are too large. Agree with the suggestions that there should be a luggage spot assigned to my seat and it should also be enforced. Charging for carry on isn't desirable since there are many items that can't go in the hold (computers, personal medications, valuables, etc) so carry-ons are necessary.
5
The first problem is the yahoos who refuse to check a bag and drag their large suitcases through an already cramped aisle.
The second problerm is that the airline staff does not insist on those big bags obags being checked through.
If you cannot afford the checked baggage fee then please do us all a favor and stay home.
End of story!
The second problerm is that the airline staff does not insist on those big bags obags being checked through.
If you cannot afford the checked baggage fee then please do us all a favor and stay home.
End of story!
3
This would be awful. As someone who travels nearly every week for work, the lost time waiting for bags, on top of the fees (does anyone really believe that unbundling what used to be included - meals, luggage, a seat that's not in the back in the middle saved anyone who didn't use those things any money) would make an inconvenient activity that much worse.
Why do we need this? Because planes are fuller; airlines are adding more seats; and fees encourage people to bring on board when they could consider checking.
Enforce the current sizes; provide closet space; and let travelers be able to get in and out of the airport without even more hassle than there already is.
Why do we need this? Because planes are fuller; airlines are adding more seats; and fees encourage people to bring on board when they could consider checking.
Enforce the current sizes; provide closet space; and let travelers be able to get in and out of the airport without even more hassle than there already is.
4
I pay the ridiculous fees to check my luggage 99% of the time, and carry on a moderately sized back pack with my computer, any valuables, and immediate necessities. Then I'm told by the flight attendant that I should put the back pack under the seat six inches in front of me (preventing me from stretching my legs) "out of courtesy to other passengers" who have brought the entire content of their households on board in their oversized carry-on bags. What about some courtesy being shown to those of us who pay up?
18
It's about time! But if the airlines would actually ENFORCE the CURRENT limits,that would help. Those huge bags are nowhere near the dimensions clearly posted. And it is a scam that people take advantage of, knowing the bag will be checked in FREE when the attendant sees it does not fit overhead.
16
Not that I particularly care for the airlines, but, one should take into consideration that in many ways, the consumer is the cause of much of this. The consumer is price-driven in this industry, not value driven. Several of the legacy carriers have tried to increase seat size, or give more value in some way, yet the consumer will jump ship over a $5 difference in ticket cost. Those initiatives have never lasted long. Unbundling services (meals, baggage, seats, etc) is what they perceive the consumer wants. I do question their judgment on the baggage charges. Just what did they think was going to happen when you charge for checked, but not carry-on? As was mentioned, they should be charging for carry-on, make the first checked bag free, charge for anything above that. Flying on carriers that do charge for carry-on have much less hassle in the cabin with boarding or space.
5
If we could check our bags without fear that they would get lost or delayed, that they would arrive at the baggage carrosel within 5 - 8 minutes of the passengers arriving at the luggage carrosel; why wouldn't we check our bags? For a moment, ignore the $25 or so baggage fee. The airlines should make the check baggage service much better so that WE PREFER to check our bags. It is obscene that they want to charge and make passengers get lousy service. In Europe and Asia, my bag is at the carrosel within 5 minutes of my arrival. I always check my bags flying intra-Europe and intra-Asia. Only in the U.S do I not want to check my luggage.
8
I totally agree. The most often we check a bag, the higher likelihood that it will be lost or delayed messing up your travel plans. Believe me, I've had it happen more times than airline cares to admit. They need 100% perfect service, then I'll always check my bag!
4
What is the answer to your cute ending query as though we are Yahoo Celebrity? How about asking something like: "So, what do you people who pay more for less when you are forced to fly think of this latest innovation for your convenience by the disgusting monopoly known as the Your Airline Carrier?" Hmmm?
1
All I want is for those people who "slip" through with their over-sized carry-ons only to be denied carrying it on - all I want is for them to pay the checked luggage fees. It is terribly frustrating to pay my fee and see them slip right through.
10
Most people bring too much stuff when they travel. There's nothing wrong with wearing the same outfit a few times, or being 'seen' by total strangers, in the same outfit. You are travelling after all, and everyone realizes that you don't have access to your entire wardrobe. Similarly, women shouldn't need a full arsenal of beauty products when travelling. Moisturizer, sunscreen and a bit of lipstick and you should be good. Keep it simple. Worrying over airport check-in fees for bags, waiting at the luggage carousel, lugging suitcases from the airport to the metro to your hotel (for those of us do-it-yourselfers), trying to avoid looking like the perfect target for a pickpocket is hard enough when travelling abroad. Large suitcases makes this all the harder. Bring wash and wear clothing in the warmer months (wash things in the sink with soap. Done!) In colder months, wear your bulkiest items on the plane versus packing them in your suitcase. Keep it simple people!
5
"Women shouldn't need a full arsenal of beauty products when travelling." (sic) Please don't presume to tell women what you think their beauty regimen should be. Things like age, life style, destination or event are all part of the decisions involved in deciding how one wishes to look and what needs to be packed. It's always an individual decision and it is presumptive to say, "...a bit of lipstick and you should be good." For me, that would never "be good"...but then, I don't ever travel to the airport on the metro.
4
We must be souls sisters- ditto to all you've said!
1
I do agree that airlines should start actually enforce the carry-on policies and at the moment very few do it (Frontier, Spirit and Air Canada comes to mind. )
Also, going back at having one free checked bag won't solve the problem because from experience, those bins were always full even when pretty much all the airlines had the one free bag policy.
Also, going back at having one free checked bag won't solve the problem because from experience, those bins were always full even when pretty much all the airlines had the one free bag policy.
1
Why wouldn't the airlines have assigned overhead slots that coincide with the seats. Ie: seat 15b, overhead bin 17b. If it fits, you sits. :) this would prevent passengers from unfairly taking up overhead space.
16
When I have to wait for all the first class, platinum, gold, silver, etc. members to board before me, there's still no space left for my small, internationally sized carry-on either way. I've been prepared for this by buying smaller carry-ons, but I'm still thwarted by more money-grubbing practices every year, and the inefficiencies associated with stuffing way too many people into cramped, cylindrical spaces. I'm burning down my travel bucket list quicker, because I'm tired of paying a premium to ride in the equivalent of a slaughterhouse-bound livestock truck.
7
Funny, I want the airlines' prices to be lower and their seats larger!
6
No way! This is just a stunt to make people buy more stuff. This means a ton of existing luggage going to the landfill or going to waste in storage. One of the issues at hand is that airlines are trying to cram human being into far too tight of quarters. Unfortunately, most of us can't afford the premium prices to be able to fly in moderate comfort. Now we're expected to shell out for new luggage? No thank you. This policy is just perpetuating consumerism, materialism, and waste.
4
Doubtless the airlines will be buying all of us new luggage conforming to the new sizes....or you can just bring along a shoe-box and place it on your lap.
1
Smart flyers have worked out that with fewer agents, and enormous pressure to push flights off the gate, they can lug the equivalent of a mobile home down to the gate, where they will be told there is no overhead room, so it will be gate checked for free. Other passengers, some of whom have paid up to a hundred bucks because 2 people used one bag, and it was a few pounds over the limit, see this, and do it themselves on their next trip. Then there are the phony wheelchair riders, who will knock you down when deplaning, if you get in their way, as they blow by a phalanx of waiting wheelchairs, organized based on how many had been used on the flight's departure. Oh, and don't forget the bogus service animals Note to DOT: if someone is so unstable they need an animal with them at all times (excluding blind persons), maybe they shouldn't be in a tube, moving at 500 mph, 6 miles up. With the undersized gate areas, the whole boarding process has become a nightmare. The perversity of all this is the airlines have no incentive to fix it, when the end result can be customers paying extra for things like early boarding, and 2 more inches of legroom. I won't even get into the cookies the airlines put in your browser, so that when you book your next flight they will only show you high fares, because they know you will buy them. The bad guys are winning, and in the process, further contributing to the lack of civility which permeates our entire society today.
13
Just ordered a new bag two days ago, after spending a month seeking out one that actually complied with the *current* American Airlines standard. Now I have to return it and start over.
1
Ladies and Gentlemen, the DOWNWARD SPIRAL leading to the absolute ABYSS is fast approaching! To think that the American legacy carriers have the effrontery to lament the competition from the Gulf airlines when they continue to degrade their passengers at every possible turn. Flying is not only uncomfortable and stressful it's become downright HOSTILE, thanks to these constant reductions in service. Profits are UP, airline costs are WAY DOWN, consolidation (thereby BUTCHERING competition) is complete....what else is there to say, ladies and gentlemen? The idea of taking a vacation has now, for most of us, been permanently tainted by the thought of having to face the indignities of the boarding process. Will they let me board? Will my carry-on that I've had for years pass muster? Will I be escorted off the plane because my pants are too baggy or my child requests something warm to eat or drink? One can summarize all this with one word: UGH!
21
Hmmm... what's that I'm smelling... oh! Yes! The scent of money.
8
Why are airlines even talking about this and getting away with it?
This smacks of collusion, not competition.
It's been over 20 years since I felt like U.S. airlines were "competing" for business. Instead, all we see is price fixing and a race to the bottom in terms of service.
I wish DOJ would go after the airlines instead of FIFA . . .
This smacks of collusion, not competition.
It's been over 20 years since I felt like U.S. airlines were "competing" for business. Instead, all we see is price fixing and a race to the bottom in terms of service.
I wish DOJ would go after the airlines instead of FIFA . . .
26
I'm out of a job, and don't have money to buy a new carry on bag. Looks lke I'll be driving to Florida!
1
The problem now is that there's is no enforcement of the current rules -- people are allowed to take bags on the plane can only be stowed sideways, allowed to take more than one bag for the overhead, put coats in the overhead, etc.
So this solves nothing.
What needs to happen -- which many overseas airports do -- is shrink the opening to to the x-Ray machine so large bags never make it through. If the bag cannot fit then you have to check. And TSA needs to pay attention to people who are bringing more than one suitcase (the rule is only one bag in the overhead, one under the seat).
So this solves nothing.
What needs to happen -- which many overseas airports do -- is shrink the opening to to the x-Ray machine so large bags never make it through. If the bag cannot fit then you have to check. And TSA needs to pay attention to people who are bringing more than one suitcase (the rule is only one bag in the overhead, one under the seat).
23
Few airlines actually imposed those rules; Frontier, Spirit and Air Canada have a "carry-on police"
1
All they need to do is enforce the current rules. On every flight I take I see at least 5-10 people put a carry on AND a brief case or large purse overhead instead of putting one under their seat.
17
If the airlines would just enforce current guidelines there would be plenty of space and no need for new guidelines.
17
The size of the bags people are carrying on is only part of the problem - admitedly a big part. Another part is the number of bags people are carrying on.
For me, however, the biggest part has to do with people whose seats are in the back of the plane - and who are often invited to embark first - but who use the overhead storage bins in the front of the plane. People whose
seats are in the front of the cabin - and who embark last only to find the space above their seats full - must now walk to the back of the cabin looking for space for their carry on bag(s). Fast forward to disembarking time. The
cabin scene from the Marx brothers' Night At The Opera should be required viewing for airline personnel and the traveling public in general. It's available on Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZvugebaT6Q.
A selfie of us all taken 80 years ago.
For me, however, the biggest part has to do with people whose seats are in the back of the plane - and who are often invited to embark first - but who use the overhead storage bins in the front of the plane. People whose
seats are in the front of the cabin - and who embark last only to find the space above their seats full - must now walk to the back of the cabin looking for space for their carry on bag(s). Fast forward to disembarking time. The
cabin scene from the Marx brothers' Night At The Opera should be required viewing for airline personnel and the traveling public in general. It's available on Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8ZvugebaT6Q.
A selfie of us all taken 80 years ago.
13
We just bought new 20" carry-ons that do fit in the overhead, however, we're fine with gate checking, it's free, and only takes a few minutes more waiting for it to be brought up to the jetway:-)
2
No airline has ever lost my overhead luggage. The more space the merrier.
Quel surprise! If people's luggage doesn't fit the new standard, why, they'll have to pay to check them. I'll bet there is some kind of collusion between the airlines and the biggest luggage manufacturers. Yes I'm a cynic. This is ONLY about money!!!
4
Overall this is pathetic...the rationale for this is what? Fuel costs? which are down 80% when the put in the interim tarriffs? what Baggage handler unions for an aging workforce's backs? The aircrafts we are flying on NOW are 20 yearss old...stop being greedy and focus on customer service on time delivery comfort...Maybe we should nationalize all airlines and remove at least the profit motive from this nonsense...there are lots of examples where that works a LOT better.
4
I'm going to let them do that dance. They can decide if my carry-on fits. If not, it goes into the hold where I would rather it be anyway.
Checked baggage prices are ridiculous. That's why I fly Southwest whenever I can.
Checked baggage prices are ridiculous. That's why I fly Southwest whenever I can.
5
Perhaps if the attendants enforced the ONE carry on bag rule, the reduction in size would not be needed. Especially for the anointed class passengers in the front of the plane. Too many people are being allowed to bring several bags into the cabin forcing others to check their carryons.
6
1. If there is no space for 120 cabin luggage, it is because aircrafts were not built to carry 120 people
2. The cost added was to make up for higher fuel prices. Fuel prices have come down, stop charging for check in luggage, Southwest has found a way to make a profit without it.
3. You can ship a box for $25 to most destination. I would rather do that than pay the airline. I predict that there will be a lot of new "shipping " businesses that pop up. It is a gold mine .
2. The cost added was to make up for higher fuel prices. Fuel prices have come down, stop charging for check in luggage, Southwest has found a way to make a profit without it.
3. You can ship a box for $25 to most destination. I would rather do that than pay the airline. I predict that there will be a lot of new "shipping " businesses that pop up. It is a gold mine .
10
If the airlines really want to create an incentive to clear the overhead bins, why don't they reverse their baggage fees? Free to check, pay to carry on. Basically the old "paying for convenience" strategy. Not that I (or many other passengers) would be thrilled with such a move, but when's the last time they really took our comfort or ease of travel into account anyway?
28
Works for me.
Now if only they would start weighing passengers + luggage and charging by the pound, so that petite light-travelers like me weren't subsidizing what it costs to hoist larger, more laden people aloft. I would like a ticket price based on what I cost to fly, not what I and 1/3 of someone else costs to make airborne. Any more than I'd want to pay for part a big-eater stranger's restaurant meal.
Now if only they would start weighing passengers + luggage and charging by the pound, so that petite light-travelers like me weren't subsidizing what it costs to hoist larger, more laden people aloft. I would like a ticket price based on what I cost to fly, not what I and 1/3 of someone else costs to make airborne. Any more than I'd want to pay for part a big-eater stranger's restaurant meal.
7
Always be skeptical of a "fairness" argument that just happens to benefit the person making it. I think the big person in the next seat should charge you for helping you reach the bin.
10
I never use the bin.
Always be skeptical of people who get defensive and snarky when faced with actually paying for their own choices. Instead of being subsidized by those of us with self-restraint.
Always be skeptical of people who get defensive and snarky when faced with actually paying for their own choices. Instead of being subsidized by those of us with self-restraint.
It's important to observe, as more travelers switch from two-wheeled bags to four-wheeled "spinner" bags, that spinner bags with the exact same packing capacity are usually at least an inch or two taller than the two-wheeled bag, because they rest on top of the wheel chassis instead of simply incorporating two wheels into the frame. So this change, if it becomes widely adopted, is going to represent a big challenge to spinner bags, and spinner bags make life a lot easier for people with certain physical issues and disabilities.
Personally, I am a million mile flyer on United and an elite flyer on Alaska Airlines. One of the reasons I love Alaska Airlines is that they allow 24" carryons; those extra two inches make a difference. My Samsonite spinner fits nicely into those Alaska Airlines bins, but would have to go sideways if I took it on United (which I don't).
Personally, I am a million mile flyer on United and an elite flyer on Alaska Airlines. One of the reasons I love Alaska Airlines is that they allow 24" carryons; those extra two inches make a difference. My Samsonite spinner fits nicely into those Alaska Airlines bins, but would have to go sideways if I took it on United (which I don't).
1
I absolutely agree. I've seen bags wheeled into the cabin that take up the whole overhead bin..or almost. Usually this is done so they won't have to wait to pick their luggage from baggage-claim. It's really a bit abusive of the other passengers' rights to enough space for their own carry-ons, which are often somewhat smaller. I try to keep mine as compact as possible, primarily because I hate dragging anything heavy and cumbersome thru the airport. I think this would be an excellent move. Some provision has to be made, tho, for professional musicians traveling with their instruments.
5
Why not put dividers in the overhead bins so that each seat has actual designated carry-on space? If it fits, it rides. If it doesn't, it gets checked.
26
Because lots of folks don't use the overhead.
This is the most sensible suggestion yet among all the passengers wheeling steamer-trunks-down-the-aisle hating crowd. The reason, Moll, is that there is not nearly enough room overhead. What with squeezing another half-inch out of your personal seating space, overhead room in completely inadequate.
No, I would not want to buy one of their bags or be willing to check mine. If the airlines weren't so slow and incompetent in unloading or getting our luggage there in the first place, they wouldn't have this problem. It's now an elitist practice whereby the frequent fliers get on first and get to fit their backpacks in the bin. I admit there is abuse but you have to examine why. Lost luggage or even waiting endlessly for your bag to appear on the carousel is a drag, even more so for the frequent flier. But it's beyond any airline to show consideration of their pasengers.
3
I've traveled a lot, mostly in the nation's busiest airports as well as some well-known international ones, and am perplexed where people are experiencing these "interminable" waits for luggage. If I check a bag, usually by the time I deplane, stop for a drink or water or to freshen up in the restroom, and stroll to baggage claim, the carousel has revved up and it's just a few minute's wait for my case. Are others really THAT pressed for time that 10 or 15 minutes awaiting your bags is such a hardship?
8
Luggage waits during peak arrival times at JFK can easily reach 45 minutes, which can be the difference between a quick taxi ride into Manhattan if you arrive just before rush hour and can leave the airport straightaway with a carryon, or being stuck in dense traffic and missing a key meeting after a long wait for a checked bag.
3
Try waiting for 55 minutes for my small suitcase (which had to be checked because the overheads were full) at Denver airport at 11:00 at night. No fun at all. My theory is that most airports have ONE person employed to handle all the bags. That's the only logical explanation for the terrible waits.
1
While I agree that for most people flying, they could certainly handle having smaller luggage, as a musician, I worry about what this will mean for all of us that need to take our instruments on board due to the pressure changes and manhandling of materials that happens below the cabin. As it stands, violinists, violists, bassoonists, and perhaps others are already given a hard time but are usually ultimately accommodated. If changing the size of carry-ins gave room for less problems/lack of space for these musicians, that will be great; but there is also the real possibility that it will make it worse. Already, Canadian Airlines has specifically mandated that violas are no longer allowed on board... If this extends to more instruments and airlines, we could be in for a very difficult time. Musicians are huge customers for the airline industry and I hope that they can support these travelers and their priceless instruments.
9
Here is an idea … put larger overhead bins on aircraft. First the airlines forced us to carry-on by asking for $$ then, they complain that there is not enough space !!! I WOULD not be surprised if their game plan all along was another move to force us to check bags and collect more fees .
We all need to petition the FAA to force the carriers to provide adequate space. Clearly the airlines do not have any interest other than maximizing revenue ! Meanwhile lets all fly the airlines that do not charge for checking bags.
We all need to petition the FAA to force the carriers to provide adequate space. Clearly the airlines do not have any interest other than maximizing revenue ! Meanwhile lets all fly the airlines that do not charge for checking bags.
12
I agree- and not just about the money. Checking bags is a huge hassle and you end up having to wait in numerous lines, get to the airport early, and stay later as you wait for your luggage to de-plane at baggage pickup. Not to mention I've had my checked luggage lost twice-- after the second time, I decided to just try and fit everything in my carry on.
2
How is it a huge hassle? I went away for the weekend recently -- airport car whisked me up to the curb, I stepped out, walked 20 feet to a porter, he checked my suitcase and sent it off to the plane. Three minutes' effort, max. The month before I waited behind three people to use a manned electronic kiosk; again, less than 10 minutes. This is at a busy international airport that's also a major airline hub.
Same on the other end. An extra 10 or 15 minutes, usually. I'm not seeing the big problem. And I've been traveling by air since 1973 and have never had a lost or misplaced bag. Am I really such a statistical fluke? Or are others just using hyperbole to rationalize the selfish overcrowding of the overhead bins?
Same on the other end. An extra 10 or 15 minutes, usually. I'm not seeing the big problem. And I've been traveling by air since 1973 and have never had a lost or misplaced bag. Am I really such a statistical fluke? Or are others just using hyperbole to rationalize the selfish overcrowding of the overhead bins?
6
It's a huge hassle if your flight is delayed and you miss a connection, so your luggage doesn't make the final destination. It's a huge hassle if your flight is canceled and you can't get your luggage back. Or if you want to fly standby, or, if, like me, you've experienced wait times of 60+ minutes (this is no exaggeration) three times for checked baggage in the past two years. Anyone who travels regularly knows that checking bags is not an option.
1
14 inches wide is too small. That's a pretty drastic downsize for most Americans. My Ikea carry-on is 20x16x8 inches--tiny compared to most suitcases I see on U.S. domestic flights. Most of the time, people bring bags that are over-sized and overstuffed. More airlines should use the caged carry-on bag sizers to enforce baggage allowances. That's the place to start.
10
Could they make airline travel any more difficult? If you are a road warrior, as I am, you have learned to pack for 5 days in the current permissible carryon. It isn't easy. It means I have to take just one pair of shoes, one coat (which I have to carry) and pare down my liquids to the tiniest possible bottles. If you don't carry on, you can't catch an earlier flight. You can't change planes if your flight is delayed or cancelled. You can't leave the airport even if you can get a flight at another nearby. So checking is not an option, and traveling with less threatens to make me look like a person who slept in my clothes. I paid $100 for my Global Entry pass just so I could go through Pre-Check and not unpack my carefully organized suitcase. Now, everyone gets Pre-Check, so the lines are sometimes slower than the regular line. or it's closed. It's ridiculous that the airlines, which take SO MUCH of my money, feel no obligation to improve their service.
37
The airlines business model is no longer that of providing service, it's primarily to make money short-term for investors. Anything that can be squeezed out of passengers who have no real recourse in terms of going over to a competitor (since it is industry-wide) is fair game. The days of the service industry actually being in the business of providing service, except for those who can pay a whole lot more than most of us could ever hope to, is long gone.
I would think that an airline that actually did provide service would do quite well in terms of business but, in terms of making profits at scale and for the short-term interest of investors, that would never last long.
I would think that an airline that actually did provide service would do quite well in terms of business but, in terms of making profits at scale and for the short-term interest of investors, that would never last long.
3
Well, Mac, perhaps you and like-minded investors can start a full-service altruistic airline that is disinterested in profit.
Let us know how it works out.
Let us know how it works out.
1
Seat sizes get smaller. Bags get smaller. People get larger.
While this is being promoted as good for the customers, I'm looking for the profit benefit for the airlines.
While this is being promoted as good for the customers, I'm looking for the profit benefit for the airlines.
6
i like the spin ... it's intended to make things easier for passengers.
not to mention it's also intended to increase revenue for airlines (because more bags will now be checked in) who pay IATA for these regulations.
not to mention it's also intended to increase revenue for airlines (because more bags will now be checked in) who pay IATA for these regulations.
6
I, for one, am leased to hear this. I don't remember seeing as many carry on bags on airplanes a few decades ago. I've asked a few people why they bring a suitcase stuffed to the brim, a couple jackets and a large book bag on the plane with them, and they all say it's because of fear of losing their luggage. The airlines should have realized years and years ago that the solution is not stuffing every corner of the cabin with luggage but to improve the tracking of checked-in luggage.
5
I take it you're a man. If you're a female road warrior, you go on the road for 4-5 days. You are expected to wear different, clean clothes every day. One pair of shoes. If you have one casual outfit, it's a miracle, and if you spill something, then you are out of luck.
6
I can fit five folded sheath dresses, two pair of pumps, jeans, tops and sufficient undergarments & toiletries in an underseat bag reminiscent of the old train cases but with several zippered outside pockets.
Wear for travel another pair of jeans and a black jacket to go with the dresses and voila, a week's business & casual wardrobe in one small tote -- no overhead bin required.
Wear for travel another pair of jeans and a black jacket to go with the dresses and voila, a week's business & casual wardrobe in one small tote -- no overhead bin required.
"Airlines to Address Carry-On Bag Dilemma.” Start charging fees for carry-on bags!
2
So does this I think take the US to the same requirements as European airlines?
Having a manufacturer label would be helpful, but I can only anticipate a very slow adoption rate/long lines by passengers still struggling with the 3-1-1 concept for liquids, a lack of PR from the airlines , and gate agents suffering the brunt of frustrations.
Having a manufacturer label would be helpful, but I can only anticipate a very slow adoption rate/long lines by passengers still struggling with the 3-1-1 concept for liquids, a lack of PR from the airlines , and gate agents suffering the brunt of frustrations.
I'm willing to make the change. But then it all has to stop--no more size changes, no more leniency towards people taking advantage with their too-big bags, no-hassle free gate check when "it's going to be a very full fight" or the bins are already full.
3
yes! So many people bring on bags that are way too big and overstuffed. My good-sized suitcase is 20x16x8 and looks minuscule compared to most bags I see on flights.
7
It's about time! I'm tired of these space hogs that show up with a carryon that is a few inches wider or longer, thereby denying seatmates their fair share of space.
And don't even get me started on shopping bags, hats (think sombrero) and duty-free purchases!
And don't even get me started on shopping bags, hats (think sombrero) and duty-free purchases!
10
Maybe if the airlines did not charge for the first checked bag, more people would not be stuffing as much as possible into their carry-ons and that would eliminate the need for people to buy new luggage to accommodate the smaller space. The whole situation has gotten out of control.
42
As an employee in the airline industry, I do believe that if the present rules were enforced for carry on lugage, we would not have to have new ruiles. One needs to have the bare minimum along in case the major piece is lost or delayed. The carry on was created with that in mind. Now what? We shall have to wear a bikini because there is not going to be any room in the new carry on storage bins? Cancel or reduce the charges on the standard luggage, and you will see a reduction on carry on and/or on weight of those. I do think that this would be smarter and easier to enforce for all. There has been a reduction in the cost of fuel, why not giving some back to the passengers?. This would be even smarter. What do you think?
42
Yup. Too many oversized bags. These are the answer: http://www.visiontron.com/prod-airline-baggage-sizer.asp
3
There's one more problem: If your flight is delayed or cancelled and you don't have your bag, you're SOL. If you fly regularly, as I do, you soon realize that you have much less flexibility if you don't carry on. I NEVER check a bag unless I'm going overseas, or am on my way home and have no connections. Otherwise, you can be stuck for 12 hours at DFW or ORD and I have been! I've even been sent to an airport hotel with no opportunity to get my bag by a major airline that canceled my flight!
12
I think you are 100% right. The one suggestion I heard that really resonated with me was the concept of offering the first checked bag free and charging for carry-on baggage, as the true luxury these days is being able to walk off the plane and not have to wait for your luggage. Given that the largest cost driver for airlines is time, any actions that delay boarding should be penalised.
Airlines create a game called "try to avoid paying $25 to wait an hour to reclaim your damaged, mishandled, or lost bags" and are then surprised when people play!
30
Oh good! That must mean that now maybe passengers will be able to decide what seat size is best for them. Naturally the airlines are again doing something to benefit the ease of travel. Of course the planes haven't been made larger or smaller…still the same old Boeing and Airbus. I'm sure it doesn't have anything to do with the reduced seat size/increased passenger load on the same planes.
7
There used to be plenty of room in those overhead bins until airlines reduced legroom, seat pitch and seat width to cram another 15% to 20% more passengers on the aircraft. The bins were not meant to be used in cattle cars.
If IATA and the airlines really wanted to reduce the problem, they would enforce the existing rules for carry-on baggage sizes. I've been on numerous flights on which passengers board the aircraft with bags that are almost double the "allowable" size.
This seems to be more about increasing revenues by making passengers pay for checked baggage than it does about passenger comfort, convenience and safety - not that there has been any consideration of these factors the last few years.
If IATA and the airlines really wanted to reduce the problem, they would enforce the existing rules for carry-on baggage sizes. I've been on numerous flights on which passengers board the aircraft with bags that are almost double the "allowable" size.
This seems to be more about increasing revenues by making passengers pay for checked baggage than it does about passenger comfort, convenience and safety - not that there has been any consideration of these factors the last few years.
21
I just measured a couple of existing bags that would meet these new requirements....Wouldn't it be easier if the airlines provided a bag tag at their check in counter that would indicate that a personal bag met the new, smaller dimensions? It could be a universal, bright colored tag, easily identifiable by airline personnel....and if you're fortunate enough to have one in your closet, eliminate the need to purchase a new, logo'd bag.
1
THings would be all right if the rules were enforced before boarding. Too many times folks board with way too many carry-ons or over-sized bags.
10
As airline travel becomes more and more inconvenient and unpleasant, when will the airlines learn that they are going to kill the goose that laid the golden egg for them. When will other people begin to just cut back on their flying because it almost isn't worth it any more, like my wife and I who travel a lot to Japan and EU but are now cutting back b/c it's just so unpleasant. We subject people in airplanes to conditions that a facility on the ground would be cited for or closed for. And why do Americans accept it like sheep? Fly a Japanese airline some time and see the difference in service and attentiveness to passengers' comfort.
31
I don't notice too many empty seats on planes these days, so I doubt the airlines are quivering in fright.
And Americans don't "accept" the inconveniences of modern-day flight, they "demand" such by shopping always (no matter how they clamor in comments sections like this) for the most rock-bottom fare. You get what you pay for.
And Americans don't "accept" the inconveniences of modern-day flight, they "demand" such by shopping always (no matter how they clamor in comments sections like this) for the most rock-bottom fare. You get what you pay for.
2
What is frustrating about this is that I bought a bag to comply with current rules. It feels like a shifting landscape to enhance revenues rather than passenger experience.
5
These people clearly do NOT travel.
Too many times arlines execs make decisions - and have no accurate frame of reference - or they ONLY fly first class.
I fly multiple times every week, and have done so for years (well over a million miles) - domestic and international, and I can clearly say - THE SIZE OF THE LUGGAGE IS NOT THE PROBLEM.
The problem is people putting the small bags which SHOULD go under the seat in front of them, in the overhead. It is a combination of plain rudeness/ignorance and the horrible enforcement of putting only large bags in the overhead. Period.
This is FURTHER exacerbated by the fact the airlines, in an effort to earn an extra buck, are making more customers pay for checking bags - which causes more bags on the plane, which causes more bags in the overheads.
Again, this problem is CLEAR to anyone who flies in the main cabin often, and watches the boarding process. Smaller bag sizes are NOT the answer.
Too many times arlines execs make decisions - and have no accurate frame of reference - or they ONLY fly first class.
I fly multiple times every week, and have done so for years (well over a million miles) - domestic and international, and I can clearly say - THE SIZE OF THE LUGGAGE IS NOT THE PROBLEM.
The problem is people putting the small bags which SHOULD go under the seat in front of them, in the overhead. It is a combination of plain rudeness/ignorance and the horrible enforcement of putting only large bags in the overhead. Period.
This is FURTHER exacerbated by the fact the airlines, in an effort to earn an extra buck, are making more customers pay for checking bags - which causes more bags on the plane, which causes more bags in the overheads.
Again, this problem is CLEAR to anyone who flies in the main cabin often, and watches the boarding process. Smaller bag sizes are NOT the answer.
34
Size doesn't matter!? I just love it when people shove in their over-sized "hand luggage".
Asking other passengers with no carry-one suitcases to put their coats and small hand bags on the floor, and use their already limited leg room, just because you believe you have a right to use the overhead as cargo bay
Now that is rude and ignorance!
Asking other passengers with no carry-one suitcases to put their coats and small hand bags on the floor, and use their already limited leg room, just because you believe you have a right to use the overhead as cargo bay
Now that is rude and ignorance!
Why should people with small carry-ons get smaller foot room so you can put your large carry-on in the overhead compartment and have all the available foot room that they don't have?
Yo, if you all agree to pay even more money to check your incredibly small bags, then we can cram even more people onto an already overcrowded plane! It's a win-win (for us).
3