4 chapters across the catalog
A host shares experiences flying Southwest Airlines coast-to-coast to avoid the baggage fees of major carriers. The segment includes a brief mention of testing the TSA PreCheck system and the observation that many domestic flights are currently operating at low capacity.
Airline Baggage Fees, KLM Ivory Status Downgrade
Travelers experienced unexpected baggage fees at the Amsterdam airport despite having previously flown with multiple bags without issue. The airline, KLM, charged 150 euros for extra bags, citing a downgrade in loyalty status from gold to "ivory." The discussion highlights the significant revenue airlines generate through baggage fees, estimated at $3 billion in the United States.
Adam Curry recounts his experience checking in for a United Airlines flight at Newark Airport, where he faced strict baggage weight limits. Miss Mickey successfully bypassed a long security line by flashing an expired KLM gold card and claiming "premium line" status. The flight eventually departed with 18 empty seats due to other passengers being stuck in security.
United Airlines Coach Experience, Baggage Fees and Overhead Bin Conflicts
A recent round-trip flight between San Francisco and Chicago on United Airlines highlights the deteriorating quality of domestic air travel. Issues cited include $600 coach fares, $49 priority check-in fees, and $20 charges for checked bags that force passengers to overstuff overhead bins. The experience was further marred by inconsistent cabin temperatures and poor service from flight attendants during the triple-seven flight.
