Recreation

Airlines Charging More For Extra Baggage

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) ― Many airlines are now charging passengers for checking a second bag.

As a professional dog handler, Taffe McFadden doesn't exactly travel light. But flying back to Sacramento from Newark, she's learned in addition to the animals- she's now being charged for additional bags.

"I wish they told us on the way out we didn't have to pay for two on the way out and coming back we had to pay for one," said Taffe.

That's because starting today coach passengers flying on Continental, United, Delta, Northwest, and US Airways will now pay a service fee for a second checked bag.

"We didn't know the fee went unto affect today until we got to the airport and there we were forking over our credit card for an extra $100 worth of fees," said Janice Hodges, traveler.

Airlines say the new fee is to offset the high cost of fuel, something many travelers at Sacramento International Airport are buying.

"They are getting us any which way they can. At the gas pumps at the airports, grocery stories any which way they can," said Rhenelle Daniels, traveler.

And there's more. If your bag weighs more than 50 pounds it will cost you an extra $50. If it's more than 70 pounds they will charge you even more.

"This is another venue for them to make money you know they are charging for the extra bag now some of them are going to start charging for if you want that isle or that window seat," said Trudy Flores, travel agent.

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