Airline fees, baggage fuel and otherwise

In reading my early morning memos from ASTA, I came across the latest in raised fees. I knew United and Continental had raised their baggage fees since a passenger is planning to leave our local area and we were checking fees for him.

The year of lower prices,etc., has come to an end. Airlines have already raised fees for checked luggage and surcharges for fuel, and passengers should expect more of the same as the industry attempts to return to profitability. Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and Continental Airlines all recently boosted the fee for checking bags.

Last week, the five largest carriers raised the round-trip fuel surcharge on routes between the U.S. and Europe by $20. "Passengers will face higher prices as we go through this year," said David Swierenga, president of AeroEcon, a consultancy in Round Rock, Texas.

Another thing to remember is the most airlines no longer accept cash for drinks and purchase of food on flights. Many people still do not realize this. You have to have a valid credit or debit card to purchase food and drinks. If you don't have one but do have cash....it isn't going to do you any good on that long flight when you get hungry and thirsty.

If anyone is traveling, whether for business or pleasure, they should be aware that the really low prices that were prevalent in 2009 are not going to hold for 2010 and beyond. There are still some good values out there and using your Travel Agent can help you through the maze.