Cracking down on carry-on bags

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DENVER - American Airlines and U.S. Airways are scrutinizing carry-on luggage more than usual. According to both airlines, staffing during busy summer months will allow for some of the employees to help enforce carry-on policies.

"We normally have more staff on service during the summer, anyway, so those staff members will help customers understand the new policy. If customers have a carry-on bag that is too large, they will need to go back to the ticket counter and check it," said American Airlines spokesman Tim Wagner.

American is one of several airlines now charging or will be charging a fee for checked baggage. As more passengers try to avoid fees of $15 or higher, some are trying to stuff what they can into those smaller roller bags. Wagner says carry on bags that exceed the regulation of 45 linear inches or 40 pounds will have to be checked and fees assessed.

"Personally I'm not very happy with it but it is what it is. There's a lot of changes going on right now," said Michael White.

White flew into Denver International Airport from Dallas on American. He was told his carry-on was too large, which surprised him.

"I've been using this bag for well over a year. The bag before was pretty much the same size and I've never had a problem until yesterday," said White.

What further frustrated White was the fact that when he flew out of Denver, that same carry-on bag apparently fit the regulations.

"It doesn't make sense how that same bag can be restricted in Dallas and then be OK in Denver. I guess I'll try to keep using it and if it's something that keeps giving me trouble then I guess I'll have to buy a new one," said White.

Several airlines are implementing baggage fees to help cope with record breaking fuel costs. The Air Transport Association estimates that fuel costs will cripple the industry this year, contributing to about $13 billion in losses.

Aviation analyst Mike Boyd says in trying to offset the fuel prices, airlines may be putting off customers.

"Unfortunately they're so panicked over losing money they're doing some dumb stuff," said Boyd.