Sorry if this is a stale topic. This forum is not equipped with an old topic search utility.

This morning I flew from IND->LAX. The check-in kiosk immediately found me in its database and issued a boarding pass that correctly identified me as a platinum elite. No upgrade to FC today because this A320 was full of business and spring break travellers headed for Southern California sun.

The kiosk demanded an $80 fee for my third checked bag. I've never paid this fee previously, even when I'm not upgraded to FC. I complained to the stressed-out ticket agent who claimed the policy is standard fare at NW: "If you're not in FC the third bag fee is always charged--regardless of your WP status..."

What gives? Is this a new WP policy for 2005? Even for platinums?