Baggage policies differ for airlines

DALLAS (AP) - Baggage policies differ by airlines. Read the rules on the carrier's Web site or ask an agent before you fly. Here are fees that some leading U.S. carriers charge for a first, second and third checked bag, plus special rules for ski equipment on domestic flights. Note that most airlines waive baggage fees for elite members of frequent-flier programs, first- and business-class travelers and full-fare coach passengers.

• American Airlines: $15, $25 and $100 for first, second and third checked bag. Skis are not normally considered oversize but count as one checked bag. Ski boot bag counts as a second bag.
• Delta Air Lines: $15, $25 and $125. Ski bag and boot bag count as one piece of luggage; no oversize fee but can be charged $90 and up if they exceed 50 pounds.
• United Airlines: $15, 25 and $125. Ski bag and boot bag count as one piece of luggage; no oversize fee but can be charged $125 if they exceed 50 pounds. Only boots and binding allowed in boot bag.
• Continental Airlines: $15, $25 and $100. Ski bag and boot bag up to 50 pounds count as one piece of luggage; so does a bag with one or two snowboards. Boot bag cannot exceed 62 inches in length, width and height combined.
• Southwest Airlines: $0, $0 and $25. One pair of skis, poles and boots count as one item; one snowboard and pair of boots also count as one item. Skis longer than 62 inches are charged a $50 oversize fee, according to a Southwest spokeswoman.

A breakdown of revenue at the average U.S. ski resort:

• Lift tickets, 46.1 percent.
• Food and beverage, 13.3 percent.
• Lessons, 10.6 percent.
• Retail, 6.1 percent.
• Rentals, 4.2 percent.
• Snowplay and tubing, 1.9 percent.
• Property leases, 1.3 percent.
• Other, 6.8 percent.