If you want a pillow and blanket in coach on American Airlines, it’s going to cost you.” That’s from The Associated Press, which reports AA “will charge $8 for a pillow and blanket in coach class for domestic trips and some international flights longer than two hours, beginning May 1. The international flights are to and from Canada, Mexico, Hawaii, the Caribbean and Central America.”
The New York Times’ In Transit blog notes AA’s $8 blanket fee was quietly announced last week, with business-travel columnist Joe Brancatelli breaking the news Friday at his Joesentme.com subscription site.
AP describes AA’s move as “an economic decision.” AA spokeswoman Andrea Huguely says: “American evaluates all aspects of the business to ensure that economic decisions are prudent and strategic for the long-term success of the company.”
AP adds AA “will sell a blue fleece blanket with an inflatable neck pillow in a clear zippered pouch, and will throw in coupon for $10 off a $30 purchase at Bed, Bath and Beyond, Huguely said. JetBlue and US Airways charge $7 for a blanket-and-pillow set, with US Airways adding eye shades and earplugs.”
Source: USA Today
By: OneLeft - 10th February 2010 at 20:51
This could be a real money spinner for AA based on my experience of US customers. “Can I get a blanket” is very often the first thing they say as they board the aircraft, even on a 30 minute hop!
1L.
By: Tango and Cash - 9th February 2010 at 21:55
One presumes you keep it for next time? Or the dog basket.
Knowing the US airlines and their proclivity for revenue-enhancement, they’ll probably reclaim “your” blanket and pillow at the exit door for “resale” to the next customer.
By: old shape - 9th February 2010 at 21:40
One presumes you keep it for next time? Or the dog basket.
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February 9, 2010 at 9:35 pm