Watch CBS News

Spirit Airlines Begins Charging For Carry-Ons

Spirit Airlines says it is gaining ground in the fight against flight delays with its controversial move to charge for carry-on bags.

The new fees took effect Sunday. Spirit spokeswoman Misty Pinson says initial signs look promising.

Since airlines started charging for checked luggage, more flyers have brought carry-on bags on board. Spirit's new fee is aimed at discouraging passengers from stuffing the overhead bins because it often takes extra time to get bags settled.

Spirit is charging $30 at check-in for any bag that's too big to fit under the seat. The price goes up to $45 for passengers who wait until they get to the boarding gate to pay.

``The check-in process is going well so far,'' Pinson said Sunday afternoon. ``It looks like this is going to speed things up.''

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.