PITTSTON TOWNSHIP -- The size of carry-on bags allowed on planes could soon be getting smaller.
Airlines all over the world are calling for new guidelines that would shrink the size of carry-on bags. It's supposed to make things run more smoothly by fitting everyone's carry-on in the planes,
But people we spoke to feel this is just another example of the airlines passing their problems onto passengers.
Those flying in and out of the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport just got the news: the next time they fly, they may be required to check the bag they normally carry-on.
"I think it will be horrible because everyone uses carry-on because checked baggage costs too much," said Amy Mitchell
Travelers like Mitchell, who just flew in from Michigan, could soon be forced with the decision to buy new carry-on luggage or check bags.
The International Air Transport Association just introduced new guidelines to shrink the size of carry-ons by a half an inch to an inch and a half.
"It sounds like a way for the airlines to make another $25. They're going to decrease it by a half an inch, so this is going to be too large," said passenger Stephen Vinciguerra.
"One, you make them smaller, then you have to buy a new bag and where does it end? Do they change it again? What do people do with the bags they have now? It's already nickel and diming you to death just to fly," said Bob Morran of Danville.
The association justifies this new guideline, saying on most flights the last few passengers usually have to check their carry-on at the gate because the cabin gets full. They say this small change in size will make a big difference for everyone on a flight to fit one carry-on.
"They are always going to tell you their side to justify it," said Morran. "As a consumer where does it end? Am I going to come on now with a wallet and that's it?"
Most travelers at this airport say this problem is the airline's problem, not one they should pay for.
"If they want us to check bags, lower the fees or get rid of the fees and we will be willing to check bags!" said Mitchell.
"I think management, if they hired more intelligent people, they could figure it out without raising prices all the time," added Morran.
Nine major international airlines say they will soon start implementing those guidelines.
So far, no U.S. airline has announced changes, but this new guideline was announced Tuesday and many airlines are expected to follow it soon.
