Rethinking Luggage Fees

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/05/24/opinion/rethinking-luggage-fees.html

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To the Editor:

Re “Behind the Backups at Airport Security” (news article, May 19):

Senators Edward J. Markey and Richard Blumenthal have suggested that airlines waive checked baggage fees during peak travel periods as a means for reducing airport security delays. The airlines, predictably, have declined; they’re not going to give up the resulting revenues.

There is an obvious alternative that would accomplish both security and revenue goals, and more. Charge for carry-on bags and not for checked luggage.

Some passengers would be willing to pay for the convenience and time value of carrying their bags onto flights, while others would opt to check them if there were no fees.

This policy would likely, on balance, reduce the number of carry-on bags, retain airline revenues and improve wait times, security and efficiency during the boarding process.

STEPHEN CHAIKIND

Bethesda, Md.