Flying Smart

Ilene Cox writes:

The cost of oil worldwide has definitely affected the cost of an airline ticket - everywhere. Many of the U.S. airlines have started charging for checked luggage. American Airlines is not the only airline that is charging for all checked luggage. So far Delta and Continental are still allowing one free checked bag. If you plan to check a second bag it will cost you $25.

Most of the airlines are also cracking down on overweight luggage. Most of the other airlines are only charging an extra $50 for luggage weighing between 51 and 70 pounds. For over 70 pounds it will cost an extra $100. Most of the rules above are for domestic travel. Most international rules regarding checked luggage have not changed: two checked bags (no charge), maximum weight is 70 pounds with no one bag weighing more than 50 pounds. I'm sure there are exceptions to these rules, check with the airline prior to your trip.

I can certainly understand airlines passing on higher costs. By the way, Southwest Airlines is not charging for checked luggage, soda or peanuts.

I realize the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative has relaxed its rules concerning everyone needing a passport by January 2008, when traveling outside the United States. Redlands resident Ilene Cox owns Redlands Travel Service on West State Street.