NEW YORK (AP) — The government says that airlines collected $3.4 billion in baggage fees last year, up 24 percent from 2009.
The fees are typically $50 roundtrip for a first checked bag.
Reservation and change fees accounted for an additional $2.3 billion, down 3 percent from 2009.
The add-ons are one of the few bright spots for an industry that is caught between rising fuel costs and customers who expect rock-bottom airfares. Analysts say without the fees, the industry would be losing money.
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