Recently, United Airlines announced their intent to charge passengers for carry-on luggage effective early in 2017. They are also encouraging passengers to place more of their carry-on items under the seat in front of them.
Problem is that much of this under- seat space has already been taken up by the installation of personal entertainment device boxes bolted to the seat frames. These devices allow one the privilege to “pay” for in-seat entertainment, on monitors placed in the back of the seat in front of you.
Some estimates state that these devices take up 27 percent of the available under-seat space. Combine this with reduced seat pitch, less cushioning and narrower aisles and it makes for a truly miserable travel experience.
Southwest Airlines is not perfect by any measure, but they truly have a better grasp on making the travel experience not as caustic. Unfortunately, we who try to fly out of Durango are not so fortunate. If United is successful with this charge for carry-on luggage, be assured the rest of the trunk carriers will follow suit. Revenue is the only thing that the airlines understand. Until they are deprived of it, nothing will change.
Please join me in boycotting United Airlines whenever possible until they come to their senses.
Bruce Shisler
Durango
