Originally Posted by
fastair
I don't have figures, so it's just a possible hypothesis, but how does average stage length compare? Given the same number of RPMs on a shorter haul means more opportunities to sell products. 5 bags going 500 miles generate more revenue than 1 bag going 2500 miles as the fee is the same either way. Of course 2 shorter connecting flights still only generate the same fees as 1 longer non-stop flight, so total origin/destination journey distance would need to be figured. Either that or just the number of passengers, which isn't proportional to total RSM due to varying lengths of haul.
fastair - you could win a prize from your employer for this great suggestion!
Here's what you should submit:
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On our great and wonderful airline (remember, some exec is going to read this, so lay it on thick), we charge our customers a usage fee based upon how much they consume of our add on products.
- Economy Plus costs more for a longer flight than a shorter flight
- Wifi costs more for a longer flight than a shorter flight
- DirecTV costs more for a longer flight than a shorter flight
Why doesn't United do the same with baggage?@:-)
Why should a person flying LAX - JFK pay the same low, low fee for their first and second bags as a person flying LAX-SFO? This is clearly an opportunity to increase our ancillary revenue, and enhance the bottom line.
My suggestion: Keep our baggage fee where it is for our short (<750 miles) flights. I am sure our fabulous financial analysts and high value consultants can figure out the correct price points above this, something along the lines of:
50 pound or smaller bags
0 - 750 miles; $25 first bag, $35 second bag
750 - 1,500 miles; $35 first bag, $50 second bag
1,500 - 2,500 miles; $45 first bag, $65 second bag
2,500 + miles; $50 first bag, $75 second bag
Your loyal employee,
fastair
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