New York Senator Has Commitments From "Several" Airlines To Not Charge For Carry-On Bags

Senator Charles Schumer (D-NY) says he has been assured by several airlines that they will not follow the lead of Spirit Airlines and begin charging for carry-on luggage.

Charles Schumer (D-NY)

Schumer said he has been personally contacted by Delta, American, Jet Blue, United, and US Airways, and all have committed to allowing passengers to bring a carry-on bag on board for free.

CNN reports that Schumer had introduced a bill in the U.S. Senate last week to amend tax laws so that airlines could not avoid taxes by charging for carry-on bags. The practice was intended to show a low fare, but still collect additional revenue.

Spirit, the only airline to float the carry-on charge trial balloon, said it was intended to expedite the boarding process. It said it had intended to adjust check-bag fees to offset the carry-on charge.

The bill proposed by Schumer, New Jersey Democrat Robert Menendez, and others would call on the Treasury Department to close a loophole that does not charge taxes on fees that are not considered "reasonably necessary" for air transportation.  "It seems that air carriers are crossing a line that will end [by] pricing middle-class families right out of being able to fly, and that's not right. While airlines have a right to set prices, families should have the right to bring a change of clothes with them and not be gouged for it," said Menendez.

FMI: http://senate.gov