American Airlines A La Carte Airline Fees

A La Carte Airline Fees: Good or Bad For the Customer?

October 7, 2008

If you're searching for flights next year and end up with a seat on American Airlines, you may notice something is different when you check out. Starting in 2009, the carrier is adopting an a la carte pricing structure. If you're someone who gets frustrated when you have to order side dishes separately from your entree, you might not be a fan of the new system.

An unbundled fee structure means there would be lower base fares and the option to add on extras for, you guessed it, a fee. Air Canada has been using the structure for some time, and while some customers like it because they know where they could be saving money, others feel nickel-and-dimed by having to pay extra for things like headsets. George Hobica, founder of airfarewatchdog.com, says, "The fees are here to stay and there will be more of them. Honestly, I think it's better for consumers. If I pack light, why should I pay for the guy that packs heavy?"

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7 Comments

nancita 4 years

I don't mind a la carte pricing either. I totally agree with the source who says, "If I pack light, why should I pay for the guy that packs heavy?" I am a pretty low-maintenance flier who typically packs light and brings my own headphones and snacks. So it would work out better for me.

aylee 4 years

If airlines are raising the airfare for all extras such as checked baggage and snacks, I'd rather have a la carte pricing. This way, passengers are given the option to save. Bundled pricing may be convenient, but not necessary. I'm frugal and I don't like paying for services I have no use for.

booglass 4 years

I have my concerns about unbundled prices when you consider that when traveling in the US liquids cannot be taken on board. If there is no more free beverage, don't you wonder just how much the airlines may feel empowered to charge for a can of soda?

booglass 4 years

skyrudich 4 years

This is the way I look at it. Just charge me whatever you are going to need to charge me in one swoop. I don't want to feel like I am being nickel and dimed along each step of my travel day. Traveling is stressful enough as it is.

Jude C 4 years

I just want my soda and pretzel packet when the plane first reaches cruising altitude, and my horrendous microwaved rubber meal later on. If I have to pay for it, I will.Doesn't mean I'll like it, though. I remember the days when that stuff was complimentary, a sort of "thanks for entrusting your life to us, and please don't cause a disturbance" gift from the airline.

Jude C 4 years

I just want my soda and pretzel packet when the plane first reaches cruising altitude, and my horrendous microwaved rubber meal later on. If I have to pay for it, I will. Doesn't mean I'll like it, though. I remember the days when that stuff was complimentary, a sort of "thanks for entrusting your life to us, and please don't cause a disturbance" gift from the airline.

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