I knew it was only a matter of time before some airline decided to charge for carry on baggage. Am I surprised to hear that airline was Spirit? Not hardly! You’ve got to love this press release. It’s almost as if Spirit is doing us a favor. I’ve read quite a variety of opinions on this move today, and they run the gamut from this is the worst thing ever to maybe Spirit is doing us a favor by limiting the amount of carry on baggage.
I have to admit that it’s hard not to almost love the idea of just how much more peaceful the boarding experience would be if folks weren’t trying to drag 50 percent of everything they own onto the airplane. But I just don’t see this move as a good deal. I think the rest of the industry will watch this closely. And if consumers don’t have a minor-league meltdown over it, I think it’s only a matter of time before some larger airline gives it a try. If this spreads, one of 2 things could happen. This will be the last straw for air travelers, or it will wind up being the best idea since sliced bread and complimentary elite upgrades. Looking forward to watching this unfold with you.
