Here is a rather interesting, informative blog report from Airfarewatchdog about AA's (and others) baggage fees and reaction to them:
http://www.airfarewatchdog.com/Airfa...7/Default.aspx
Airlines Slow to Get on Board With Bag FeesCHARLOTTE, N.C. -- The move by AMR(
AMR -
Cramer's Take -
Stockpickr) unit American Airlines to charge passengers $15 for their first checked bag has triggered an unusual split in the airline industry.
Typically, airlines act in concert when imposing new charges or higher ticket prices, fearing the competitive impact if one carrier charges more than another. But today, three legacy carriers and low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines impose a first-bag
fee, while the three remaining legacy carriers and most low-fare carriers have not. One reason for the split involves the question of whether the fee actually boosts revenue without adding cost. Aviation consultant Robert Mann says some airlines also worry the fee may trigger the unintended consequence of "turning flight attendants into baggage police" and causing delays as more passengers carry items on board and excess luggage must be moved from the cabin to baggage holds............
http://www.thestreet.com/story/10422...-bag-fees.html