Traveling is already expensive and hectic without all the extra fees to keep track of. Now, American Airlines and United Airlines will be adding what is called a “Gate Service Fee.” What this means is if you purchase their cheapest fare offer called “Basic Economy,” you will not be able to bring a carry-on onboard without paying their newest fee. Flyers will only be allowed to bring with them one item that fits under their seat. Both airlines clearly state that overhead bins will not be available to anyone fitting the above description who do not pay their new fee.
There’s a New Fee at The Airport to Look Out For
American Airlines defines items that fit under the seat as a purse or small handbag that is is not larger than 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm). All other items must be checked at ticket counters and cannot be carried on.
United Airlines defines the item you may stash under the seat as a shoulder bag, purse, laptop bag or other small item that is not larger than 9 inches x 10 inches x 17 inches (22 cm x 25 cm x 43 cm). Please note that United calls this fee a “Gate Handling Charge.”
On either airline, if you take anything larger than the sizes specified to the gate you’ll pay an extra $25 gate service fee per item plus the applicable bag fee. The only exception to the rule will apply to airline members with an elite membership status.
So far, Delta’s Basic Economy fare still allows for customers to bring an item that fits in the overhead bin. That might be worth noting the next time you’re shopping for airline deals.
Are you tired of airlines charging customers all these extra fees? Let me know in the comments or tweet me @lorenridinger.
