A few well-known airlines have embarked on a new trend in growing ancillary revenue streams by actually inventing new services instead of merely unbundling existing ones. American and United announced initiatives in the last couple of days.
Starting August 6, American Airlines will partner with BAGS VIP Luggage Delivery to offer a door-to-door delivery service for luggage from more than 200 U.S. domestic airports for a fee.
Beginning yesterday, US Airways became the first US carrier to offer international economy passengers a premium meal choice for a typical price of $20. The program is called DineFresh, with items like shrimp cocktail and creme brulee cheesecake (whatever that is).
Read full story at: http://www.tnooz.com/2012/08/03/news/ancillary-friday-american-goes-the-last-mile-with-luggage-and-us-airways-expands-its-menu/