MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) Air travel experts say another rule may be in the works for luggage.
As it stands, travelers aren't just paying for a seat; they also pay extra to check-in bags, sometimes to even to carry them on. There is growing speculation more US-based airlines may start imposing a weight restriction on your carry-on bags.
Most US-based airlines don't have any weight limits in place for carry-on bags, only size restrictions. US Airways requires travelers to pack less than 40 pounds in their carry-on bags. The weight limit even lower for Hawaiian Airlines passengers because their bags have to be less than 25 pounds.
Airfarewatchdog.com spokesperson George Hobica said those airlines that all ready have restrictions in place, are enforcing them more frequently and stringently.
For some travelers, keeping a carry-on on the lighter side can be difficult. Especially for those who travel with electronics, which can easily tack on weight to a bag.
Kelly Dreske from Detroit, MI said she's constantly traveling for business and usually only packs a carry-on. She said these weight restrictions could really slow her down. "I always pack my i-phone, i-pad, and Kindle. My carry-on is pretty heavy."
Dreske sees this as just another way airlines can charge a fee. "I kind of feel this is a way airlines can make money."
Others say putting a weight restriction on carry-on bags could be a move toward safer flying. Lighter bags in overhead bins could prevent a dangerous situation.
Steve Bishop from Massachusetts thinks airlines should absolutely have weight restrictions and wouldn't mind having to pay a fee to check-in a bag if his carry-on is too heavy.
"I wouldn't want a heavy bag falling on my head for obvious reasons or hurting a kid or anything like that. That's crazy," said Bishop.
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