Money & Travel admin on 10 Feb 2010 02:58 pm
American Airlines To Charge For Blankets, Stewardesses
(FiniteTimes.com) - In an expected move, American Airlines announced today that it would begin charging $8 for pillows and blankets on some flights. A bit more surprising was news that they’d also begin charging passengers for stewardess — now called in-flight consultant — use.
“Our in-flight consultants’ time is money — our money — and I’m afraid we can’t just keep giving that away for free,” said an airline spokeswoman who requested anonymity. “If you have a question, $15. Need a hand with something in terms of your seat or entertainment system? $20. Thirsty or hungry? You’ll be paying for your beverage or snack, plus a 25%+ gratuity on top of that.
“Remember, tips now make up a large part of our in-flight consultants’ take-home, so be generous, even if you’re riding in our new baggage-class section,” added the spokeswoman.
The latest is one of a series of moves by American Airlines and other carriers to increase profits. In the past month airlines have been experimenting with a number of money-making measures, including coin-operated toilets, casino-style high stakes gambling, and a variety of 5-fly-5 programs, where passengers pay $5 to fly the plane for five minutes.
While flyers will likely grumble over the new fees, the in-flight consultants are applauding the move.
“It will mean less stress for me in the air in terms of less obligations, more me-time, with more money in my pocket. What’s not to love?” said one New York-Atlanta consultant during a seven minute, $310 interview with this reporter.
American Airlines will begin implementing their new fee structures on May 1.
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