We recently returned from a couple of weeks in Vermont (what a great place to vacation). Since it was just the kids and me, we decided to fly so we took a flight on American. That has become our... More

We recently returned from a couple of weeks in Vermont (what a great place to vacation). Since it was just the kids and me, we decided to fly so we took a flight on American. That has become our favorite since it's the only airline that offers non-stop service to where we need to go. However, it has been a couple of years since I've flown and there were a lot of changes. I didn't know now that they charge $2 per bag to have it checked outside with the skycap. And that doesn't include gratuities - our first skycap was so happy to tell me that and I reluctantly forked over an extra dollar just to be sure he actually would get my bags on the right flight. I thought it was horribly rude to ask for a tip. I didn't think that was allowed. On the return flight, more craziness ensued. First I was told my suitcase was too heavy and I had to remove 10 pounds from it or pay a $25 fee. They let me put the 10 pounds of stuff into my other bag, so I'm not really sure this was worth anything but hassle on my part. Then they moved our seats from row 4 to row 12 because that particular aircraft only had extra life preservers in the last three rows. I've flown American with lap children at least six other times and never has this been an issue. Twelve rows is a long way to go when you're carrying a heavy bag, a heavy child and following a slow moving pre-schooler dragging his backpack that won't keep getting under your feet! We sit on the flight and everything is going okay until they pass the drink cart down the aisle. On the top were three trays of food. I inquired about them, thinking foolishly that they were going to be nice enough to give them to the kids since it was dinner time and who wants to hear kids fuss on the plane? Nope. I was told they were available for $4 each. What was in them? A package of cheese crackers, a fruit rollup and another little snacky thing. What a fabulous value. We passed. I don't understand why American feels the need to stick its customers with fees left and right. I know times are tough financially, but some of those things are rediculous. The good news: We arrived safely (no need for those life preservers) and on time and so did our luggage!
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