[Travelandtourism] > I Like Big Bins: Major Airlines Increasing Overhead-Bin Space

[Mary Donahue]

Hello Reese and everyone,

	That's good to know, as I will be flying U.S. Airways to Phoenix
tomorrow. Now, let's see if some of these airlines can do something about
enlarging seats on aircraft and eliminate the passengers of size
controversy.

Mary Donahue


-----Original Message-----
From: travelandtourism-bounces at nfbnet.org
[mailto:travelandtourism-bounces at nfbnet.org] On Behalf Of Reese
Sent: Friday, March 09, 2012 8:55 AM
To: NFB Travel and Tourism Division List
Subject: [Travelandtourism] > I Like Big Bins: Major Airlines Increasing
Overhead-Bin Space

For an industry in which everything seems to be getting smaller, at least
one thing is bucking the trend: the overhead bin. The AP reports that major
U.S. airlines are making overhead bins larger in order to accommodate
bulkier luggage and an influx of carry-on bags.

United, American, US, and Delta are all jumping on the bigger-bin bandwagon.

Some carriers are outfitting bins with tougher latches; others are replacing
overhead-bin doors with ones that curve out, allowing for more space for
passengers' suitcases. Boeing is also taking steps to increase storage space
on planes, and is designing larger bins that can contain more carry-on
luggage.

Representatives from United, US Airways, Delta, and American confirmed that
theey have expanded overhead bins on some planes. The reason? Rahsaan
Johnson, a spokesperson from United, told us in an email, "The bin expansion
is part of our larger plan to improve the entire boarding and in-flight
experience through the expansion of Economy Plus, the introduction of
DIRECTV, and in-flight Wi-Fi. Our other airplanes that principally fly
domestic markets already have larger bins."

An American spokesperson said that the carrier began boosting overhead-bin
space after noticing an "increase in the number of passengers with carry-on
bags."

Indeed. American, US, Delta, and United all charge $25 or more for first
checked bags. Anyone who's flown on a major carrier in the past few years
can appreciate one of the great benefits of boarding the plane first: you're
one of the precious few who can fit your bag in the overhead bin. Board a
full plane late, however, and you're left either squeezing your duffel into
a space the size of an airplane pillow or checking your bag at the gate.

Are you surprised that airlines are adding more overhead-bin space?

Reese



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