American Airlines Carry-on Issues
Dear American Airlines,
Disclaimer: Images are meant to be satirical.
Flying is a big enough pain. Then you're about to board your flight and hear the announcement that there isn't enough overhead storage for all carry-on items. First time we heard this we probably thought, "WOW, a crowded flight!" Then y'all did it on the next flight... and all other subsequent AA Flights. Maybe this problem has lessened with the introduction of Basic Economy, but was still an issue for passengers on our last flight with Basic Economy. (Note: with Basic Economy, you do not get a carry-on item bigger than a backpack that can fit under the seat in front of you - and you have to choose: Backpack or Purse. Not like Sophie's Choice but we digress...)
A few options for American Airlines:
- During checkout, offer an extra fee to guarantee your carry-on will fly with you.
- Provide information on checking your carry-on bag.
Carry-on Fee
No one likes extra fees, but no one likes having to check your bag when you thought you'd be able to just walk off the plane with your carry-on like you have on so many flights!
For the fees, this depends on your regulations and how you determine which flights will have carry-ons "confiscated" to be checked. It appears that you are operating on a first come, first serve basis. All of our flights have been in group 7+ no matter when we purchased our tickets. This may be due to the fact that we are not in any of the American clubs nor do we have a credit card with your airline. So here is the perfect opportunity to up-sell!
Have an American Airlines Credit Card? Now you're guaranteed a carry-on with any First Class or Main Cabin flight!
Don't want the Credit Card for the guaranteed carry-on perk? No worries! Pay a one-time fee of $15 to guarantee your carry-on goes with you.
Information on Checking Your Carry-on
If you offer a guaranteed carry-on option with an extra fee during checkout, then this is a perfect time to show a video or infographic on your carry-on options with a Main Cabin purchase.
If you are going to require your passengers' carry-on bags to be checked, then have a poster at the gate (with link for passengers to watch video or read on their smartphone/laptop) with the options behind your carry-on being checked.
Explain the options available on checking the bag to pickup at baggage claim vs. on the jetway.
Why does this matter? You might think that the jetway is a perfect option for everyone! 2 reasons it might not be.
- Firstly, you might have a connecting flight. Having to wait for your bag on the jetway could be the difference between you making the connection or not. Assuming the plane waits for you, there's still that worry of "what if it leaves without me!" We prefer not to run in airports... makes us sweaty and unpleasant for the lovely passengers of our connecting flights.
- Secondly, and more superficially, the jetway is a small corridor and it is not comfortable to wait in that area for your bag. Typically you have to dodge wheelchairs, strollers, people claiming their bags, people storming past you to get off the plane, and/or extreme cold or hot weather depending on your location (not all of us are lucky enough to land in San Diego).
So in that case, knowing your options of having your carry-on checked would be swell!
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