U.S. airlines raked in $2.5 billion in baggage fees in 2010

Airlines in the United States have raked in $2.5-billion so far this year by charging extra fees for bags, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. In 2007, that figure was just $464-million—or one fifth as much. Delta alone made $733 million from baggage fees this year. Most American airlines began charging for the service of checking one or more bags in the last year. In November, WestJet began charging $20 for customers who check a second bag. Air Canada added a $20 second-bag fee the following day.

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