SpiceJet unbundles baggage services from ticket pricing

After preferred seats, and meals, you may soon have to start paying for every bag you check-in on your next flight. SpiceJet has become the first airline to unbundle baggage services from ticket pricing which means pay more if your bags weigh more, and pay less if you travel light.    So now one may want to think about carrying that extra pair of shoes while packing for your next trip. With the aviation regulator unbundling the check-in baggage facility, airlines are gearing up to charge passengers for every bag they check-in, and SpiceJet has been first off the block. The airline has launch a limited period special fare scheme in which a passengers flying with just a single cabin bag can purchase a domestic flight ticket for Rs 999 all-inclusive. Any checked in baggage under this discount scheme will attract extra payment of Rs 750 per bag. SpiceJet is offering this 'Travel Light, Save More' scheme for 1.5 lakh seats available for booking till April 29. It is pertinent to note that AirAsia, was actually the first low cost carrier which had sought permission to charge for each piece of checked-in baggage last year. The DGCA, had however denied permission as only partial unbundling of services has been allowed at that time. Senior AirAsia India officials indicate that the airline is keen to start charging for check-in bags separately and are awaiting clarity on the new rules. The SpiceJet scheme comes at a time when AirAsia is gearing up to launch flights from Delhi to Bengaluru, Goa and Guwahati at very low fares. Industry watchers see SpiceJet's scheme as a possible well-timed counter move.  Other budget carriers like IndiGo and GoAir are likely to announce similar check-in baggage payment schemes shortly. In its latest circular the DGCA has made several services chargeable including preferential seating, meals - except drinking water which must be given free, checked in baggage, premium lounges, and transportation of sports equipment and musical instruments. The regulator has ushered in the move saying it will give passengers the option of only paying for the services they use. Whether the move helps passengers or airlines or becomes a win-win for both remains to be seen.