airline baggage cost update

from the wsj:

"Based on our own estimate derived from consultations with industry executives and other sources, the cost to carry checked luggage comes to roughly $15 a bag."

"Today, most major airlines charge $15 each way to check one bag; $25 each way for a second bag; and as much as $125 each way for a third bag or any bag that weighs more than 50 pounds. Notable exceptions: Southwest Airlines Co. allows two free bags; JetBlue Airways Corp. and Alaska Air Group Inc. transport one bag free."

"United, for example, has said it expects to collect $275 million annually from the first- and second-bag fees. AirTran Airways, which will begin charging $15 to check one bag next week, said it expects to take in $50 million to $100 million annually in fees."

don't forget that earlier post I made, where united will gladly charge you "starting at $149/bag" for overnight service...