US Airways Will Now Charge For Blankets, Pillows On Flights; Expects $500M Annually From All Extra Charges

November 3, 2008 11:34 a.m. EST

Tempe, AZ (AHN) - US Airways has announced it will begin selling passengers blankets and pillows that were once free to use aboard its planes.

The Tempe, Arizona-based carrier has been the lead airline in what is being called a la carte pricing of once free items on flights. It charges passengers for sodas and coffee and also has fees to check baggage or reserve a better seat.

Company officials haven't decided on a price for pillows and blankets yet, but are discussing charging $7, along with discussing what date to begin charging for the items. Passengers will then own the items and can take them with them.

US Airways reportedly expects to bring in $500 million in new revenue next year from its extra charges for items.

JetBlue Airways began charging for pillows and blankets in August.