Airlines make record $22.6 billion from fees, report finds - USATODAY.com

U.S. airlines bring in more revenue from fees for bags and other products and services than do the world's other carriers, a new report released today reveals.

"It's clear that airlines recognize the importance of ancillary revenue and are developing increasingly innovative ways to generate it," says IdeaWorks President Jay Sorensen.

Many airline passengers, though, are annoyed at buying a ticket and paying extra for services and products that once were free. The extra fees initially were charged by low-fare carriers but have now become a priority for all airlines — and essential for their profitability.

United Airlines, which merged with Continental Airlines in 2010, generated more ancillary revenue — $5.2 billion — than any other carrier last year, according to the IdeaWorks report, sponsored by Amadeus, a travel technology company with a computer reservation system used by travel agents and airlines.