The dreaded airline bag fees have hopped the pond. Beginning in April 2013, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines will begin charging passengers for checked bags on flights within Europe.
The move marks a break from other "traditional" European carriers (think Air France or British Airways,) "which have prided themselves on not burdening passengers with ancillary charges as do the budget carriers," reports Business Traveller.
As DutchNews.nl reports, a KLM spokesman told Dutch media that a high percentage of KLM passengers only bring carry-on luggage. "We know people would rather pay less for their tickets and that is why we are going to lower the price for flights," he said.
The baggage fee will make up the difference.
According to KLM's website, the new fee for bags is in effect for flights booked on or after April 22, 2013. The cost of checking a bag will be 15 euros ($20) if paid in advance and 30 euro ($40) if paid at the airport.
Passengers who are in the Flying Blue frequent flyer program, or are flying to and from Belarus, Georgia, Italy, Russia, Turkey or the Ukraine may still check one bag free of charge.
The bag fees are a pain. But, hey, at least KLM wants to help passengers find the ideal seatmate.
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