Pay extra, or you get your luggage last

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-fri_united_1019oct19,0,6673281.story

To improve operations, it has launched 250 initiatives, including investigating whether to divest United's $750 million cargo business as well as its frequent-flier program and San Francisco maintenance base; introducing a la carte fees for economy passengers who want to purchase new services, like ensuring their luggage is first off the plane; and exploring mergers, a favorite Tilton pursuit.

Wow. I have had to wait for my luggage before, but I don't think it's enough of an issue to pay extra to get it first, unless I'm in a hurry. I guess I would expect that would be a perk if buying a higher-class ticket, but don't think they really should have that for economy. I figure that if it's important enough to have those perks then they should just pay more for the ticket.

How much do you have to pay to guarantee you actually get your luggage?  Funny that it's United.  That's the only airline that not only lost my luggage, but I never got it back! 
Continental at least returned my bags within 24 hours!

Am I the only one who actually likes waiting by the carousel for their luggage? I kind of like to see all the bags coming by and it's like winning the lottery if yours comes first.

Am I the only one who actually likes waiting by the carousel for their luggage? I kind of like to see all the bags coming by and it's like winning the lottery if yours comes first.

Ha ha ha!! You need help!


As for the paying to get your bags first I'm sure it will go all pearshaped. People who pay to get their bags simply won't get them first and will end up writing to the company or standing in a long queue to try to get their money refunded wasting even more time!

I've stood at the carousel with executive milage club members who were supposed to get their bags first and they waited nearly as long as I did. 

As long as my bags arrive, I could really care less when they get on the belt.  After traveling I don't mind waiting a few more minutes.  I sure wouldn't pay to get them faster.  With 2 kids in tow it is actually easier for me to wait to get my bags until most people are gone anyway.

I agree! I can't really think of a time when it's been important for me to get my luggage that quickly. Certainly not important enough to pay extra for it.

Am I the only one who actually likes waiting by the carousel for their luggage? I kind of like to see all the bags coming by and it's like winning the lottery if yours comes first.

I like that, too! Except for that sinking feeling when nearly all the bags have come off and the same two sad duffel bags are circling ... and your suitcase still isn't there. Thank you, Delta. Again.

Except for that sinking feeling when nearly all the bags have come off and the same two sad duffel bags are circling ... and your suitcase still isn't there. Thank you, Delta. Again

Ugh had that happen a month ago and seriously, it was the first time I packed things that were literally priceless inside. I was almost sick until they all came back 24 hours later. Delta is known for this I guess.