Airlines back off baggage fees for military

WASHINGTON (AP) - August 15, 2008-

They've started giving service members a pass on expensive baggage fees when they carry heavy duffel bags stuffed with combat gear.

AirTran Airways, Delta and Northwest will now waive all or most of their baggage fees for active members of the U.S. military on official travel.

Earlier this week, American, Southwest and Horizon Air began waiving their fees to check a third bag for active duty members. Some service members, including those deploying to and from combat zones, have said they've been asked to pay as much as $300 for extra for overweight duffel bags that may include body armor and other vital combat equipment.

Many airlines increased baggage fees this year to help cover the high cost of jet fuel.

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