American Airlines to Charge Travelers for Pillows, Blankets

(Sky News) – There was more bad news Tuesday for those travelers who like a spot of comfort during a flight.

American Airlines will follow a lead set by jet Blue Airways, and start charging for bedding from May, Sky News reported Tuesday.

Economy passengers will pay $8 for the pillow and blanket pack on some American Airlines flights over two hours, but first class passengers would still get the bedding bale free of charge.

JetBlue already did away with recycling their blankets and began charging passengers $7 for bedding travel packs, which it claims were "eco-friendly".

The charges were introduced to recoup lost revenue from the soaring price of aviation fuel.

The U.K's Air Transport Users Council told Sky News the charges would give the airline industry a boost after one of the worst years on record.

Spokesman James Freemantle said, "If supplementary charges mean cheaper fares for passengers and as long as they're not compulsory, we think its a good thing for the industry."

But consumer groups in the U.K. were concerned airlines in Britain could follow suit.

Head of research for consumer rights group Which? Holiday, Rochelle Turner, told Sky News, "We're disappointed to see, once again, airlines charging for services that were once included in the full cost of the ticket."

There was outrage last year when budget airline Ryanair announced they were considering installing coin slots on toilet doors.

The airline was also criticized for charging passengers for making credit-card bookings, checking-in and putting extra luggage in the hold.

Source: http://news.sky.com/skynews/Home/World-News/US-Airlines-Charge-Passengers-For-Pillows-And-Blankets---Jetblue-And-American-Airlines/Article/201002215545227