Originally Posted by
IADCAflyer
Resolution to the bag bin issue is to allow checked bags for free and to charge for overhead space. AA is all about charging for convenience ("Preferred" seating, early boarding, etc.). So, charge for the convenience of using the overheads. There is a plethora of baggage hold space. Make that free.
You get one personal item free - laptop bag, purse, backpack. All roll-aboards and suitcases are a paid convenience. AA elite status members, MCE, and first class excluded - of course.
This is exactly correct. People are willing to pay more for space and convenience, as we see with seat reservation charges at many airlines.
When the airlines started doing the checked-bag-fee thingy (but carry-ons were free), I remember thinking, "This is exactly backwards."