How airline fees have turned baggage into billions

The article discusses the growing controversy surrounding airline fees for checked baggage. Airlines have significantly increased the fees they charge for checked bags, which has become a major source of revenue for the industry. This practice has drawn criticism from politicians and consumer advocates who argue that these fees are unfair and burden travelers, especially those from lower-income backgrounds. The article notes that the revenue generated from baggage fees has grown exponentially in recent years, reaching billions of dollars annually for major airlines. This has led to calls for greater regulation and transparency around these fees, with some lawmakers proposing measures to limit or cap the charges. The article highlights the tensions between the airline industry's pursuit of profitability and the public's desire for affordable and accessible air travel. It suggests that the debate over baggage fees is part of a broader discussion about the balance between airline profits and consumer interests.