Originally Posted by
artemis
True, but couldn't the airlines require everyone to check in with the gate agent to have their carryons counted, measured, weighed, and tagged before boarding commenced? Not checking in prior could result in the luggage being checked (and a fee assessed).
It would be a change, but I think a doable one.
I think it would be a major change. The airlines have invested a lot in the current set-up: online checkin before arriving at the airport, self-checkin at kiosks, not all of which are actually staffed or in the ticketing area, curbside bag check. All of that automation has been accompanied by a corresponding reduction in manpower.
It would be a significant change (long lines and added manpower) to start forcing everyone to line up for a bag count/weight check.
Doing it at the gate would require a significant increase in hardware and manpower at the gate. There are currently no scales at the gates and IME, the staff generally are too busy to take on the additional duties.