This is good: What if airline checked-bag fees were taxed?
Skift Take
Bag fees are a tax dodge for airlines because ticket prices are taxable and bag fees aren't. Taxpayers end up making up the difference to fund the aviation system.
To keep airfares down as fuel costs rise, airlines charge fees - some of which are federal-tax exempt - for reservation changes, seating, early boarding, meals, entertainment and baggage. Untaxed baggage fees in particular have generated $12.8 billion for airlines since 2007. If taxable, the revenue would help federally fund the air transportation system.
Up Next
Hotels
How Data Quality Issues Impact Global Hospitality Operations
There are wide discrepancies in data quality for hotel transactions across global regions, with the largest occurring in Asia-Pacific. Because hotels and agencies need to harness data quality to thrive, they must take a more nuanced regional approach to monitoring potential issues.
Sponsored 
Tourism
The White Lotus Effect Could Be a Disaster for Thailand's Koh Samui - And Travel Media Is Making it Worse
It is disheartening to see the same publications that have previously reported on the perils of overtourism now behaving like golden retrievers chasing a tennis ball, sprinting after the hype with little critical reflection.
Startups
Travel Startups Raise $580 Million Over Two Weeks
The ticket experiences sector has been ripe for modernization, and Klook is among those cashing in.
Airlines
Tariffs and Travel: What Trump’s Trade Moves Could Mean for Airlines
President Trump’s proposed tariffs on aluminum and steel imports could have ripple effects on the aviation industry — and eventually result in passengers footing the bill.
Hotels
Accor CEO: Opening Hotels in Mykonos Too Risky due to Climate Change
When a major hotel group like Accor decides not to build in Mykonos because of climate risks, it's a sign that climate change is reshaping business decisions.