Other airlines are going to match this, I believe. AA is doing what it can to help stay afloat. I don't undertand why some of you don't see that you have to pay more for choice and convenience. (We don't mind paying a lot more for our luxury cars!) Cut out the whining and lets do our part as AA loyalists! AA is going to survive and thrive whether or not you pay the fee and fly AA. If you want to fly a cattle-car airline, its your choice!!