Several airlines have increased checked baggage fees, ranging from $35 to $45. To avoid these costs, travelers can consider checking with airlines that still provide free checked bags, combining luggage with others, or packing light. Utilizing car seat carriers, declaring extra bags during online booking, and using weight scales are also helpful. Additionally, certain credit cards and loyalty programs provide benefits for free checked baggage.
The Justice Department is investigating Boeing's compliance with its settlement agreement related to the 737 Max crashes. The probe stems from a mid-air door panel blowout on an Alaska Airlines flight last month. The investigation could impact the previous DOJ agreement. Alaska Airlines is cooperating and denies being a target. Passengers have filed a lawsuit against Boeing and Alaska Airlines, alleging negligence and ignoring warnings.
