Home » Airline Charges, Are You At Risk For a Scam?

In lieu of all the new changes when flying one should be especially aware of the weight of your baggage. Example a family member traveling via a well know airline had weighed her bags at home and it stated 27 lbs. Upon departure the carrier weighed her in at 28 lbs. She went on the trip, purchases two pull over blouses and upon return they, the carrier said the same exact bags and content with two additional blouses weighed over 50 lbs and they wanted an additional $100.00.

Now tell me those two blouses weighed 25 lbs? No they said it is what it is, pay or take something out. So some bath items were taken out and they said ok, you're exactly at 50 lbs. Yes and the girl took a bottle of perfume out that had passed inspection going. She said it was a good brand but to large by an oz. I guess she liked the smell? To boot when we got home we found the locks were broken, the suitcase was damaged and torn and the items were looked through.

Now perhaps the scales were not right, who knows  but the bottom line something was not right in Mudville. So the warning based on personal experience and which formed this opinion is keep your eyes and ears open. Also, it seems to me you better weigh your bags before you leave going in any direction. The security, well a necessary evil in this age but depending on airport and I guess attitude your bags and content will take a beating. This one was Atlanta and it has happened before.  Oh and concerning that damaged lock and baggage the following quote from their reply "Our policy requires that damaged baggage must be reported for inspection within 24 hours of travel at the Baggage Service Office. [Did that, told the same, not happy call HQ] It excludes liability for minor cuts, scratches and dents or for items that protrude from baggage such as retractable handles, straps, zipper pulls, locks, wheels, and baggage feet.  Please note, all claims reported after 24 hours are subject to denial."  Yes and as you know there is little to no recourse to you. Hey it is America and "unfortunately" the name of the game, pay or else.

So let the traveler beware. Oh and yes, delays, delays, delays, fees, fees, fees, yes and make your won way if delayed or cancelled, all part of the new air transportation system and yes no recourse as well.

Robert T. Melaccio Sr. 2009 Copyright Robert T. Melaccio Sr. 2009