Chuck on airline bin ban: Stuff it

SEN. CHUCK Schumer is concerned about airlines charging passengers for the ability to use space in the overhead bin.

The New York Democrat (photo) said Sunday that passengers who purchase tickets at new “basic” fares offered by United Airlines and American Airlines won’t be able to store carry-on baggage in the overhead bins.

Schumer said he worries other airlines will follow suit and that one day, all passengers might have to pay extra if they want to stow a suitcase overhead.

“You don’t have to know how to read the tea leaves to see that when it comes to new airline fees, the future looks turbulent for consumers,” the Senate minority leader said.

“The airlines that have adopted this policy should hit the eject on this plan and allow free use of the overhead bin for all fare classes and for all customers.” The airlines argue that the new “basic” fares are simply a way to give passengers a cheaper alternative to standard fares, which come with overhead bin privileges.