If you are a friend of this blog, you know that Travel Tip Tuesday isn’t always a list of travel tips. Occasionally it is a platform for me to bitch about ridiculous travel rules, decisions and fees.
Stupid airline fees, like the ones for checked-bags, often make an appearance as well.
I also like to give others a forum to weigh in on some of these ridiculous decisions made by the airline industry.
Well, according to the NYTimes Intransit Blog, American Airlines plans to charge $8 for a blanket and pillow on the plane, beginning May 1st on domestic flights and some international flights over two hours.
I am not one that likes to be nickle-and-dimed when I travel. And I could really care less about having a blanket for keeping warm on a plane, as I generally pack or wear a pashmina that doubles as a shawl or blanket if I get chilly.
Honestly though, I do like the idea of having that blanket to roll up or extra pillow to use as a lumbar support for my lower back- because the airline seats are so dang comfortable!
But these fees – the airlines just keep adding them. And raising them. When will it end?
First airlines roll out checked-bag fees for a second bag, then for the first, then they raise the fees, then they charge for pretzels, then soda and now blankets. Some are even charging for specific premium seats! Soon you’ll pay for water and to use the bathroom.
As I sit here, the ladies of The View are dishing about this- they are angry too. They agree- something has to be done. But what?
And why only coach passengers? Don’t the airlines realize that travelers in coach are there because they can’t afford to spend any more money?
Seriously. I don’t get it.
So here are my questions to you….
How much does this anger you? What is your breaking point? Will this impact your decision to fly with American Airlines? Will you pay $8 for a blanket in coach? And what are your suggestions or solutions to deal with this growing problem?
Photo Credit: Roger Bits
