Oh, we’ve followed the nickel- and dime-ing of the airline industry since the beginning of this year. First it was Southwest Airlines charging for a third checked bag. Later we discussed American Airlines charging customers for travel pillows and making us pay a fee for a first checked bag (with United Airlines and US Airways jumping on that bandwagon yesterday).
But in addition to charging $15 for a first checked bag later this summer, US Airways said it will start charging customers for in-flight beverages. We’re talking no more free Diet Coke, coffee, tomato juice or bottled water.
In addition to current sales of alcoholic beverages on all domestic flights, US Airways will begin selling all non-alcoholic beverages (including sodas, juices, bottled water and coffee) in its domestic coach cabins for $2 effective Aug. 1, 2008. Alcoholic beverages will be available for $7 (currently $5). Complimentary beverages will continue to be served in domestic First Class, US Airways Shuttle flights, trans-Atlantic Envoy and trans-Atlantic economy class. Unaccompanied minors will also receive complimentary non-alcoholic beverages.
I just had to pick my jaw up from the ground after reading this. I’m so disillusioned.
But I guess it’s nice to know that if my kids ever travel by themselves, they won’t have to spend their hard-earned allowance on a cup of orange juice.
Bah!
