Airline policies lead passengers to gate check bags despite empty overhead bins

Airlines allow passengers to carry bags onto planes if there is enough space available. Priority boarding ensures access to overhead compartments, while late boarders often find themselves forced to gate check their luggage. The introduction of fees for checked bags by airlines other than Southwest has led more passengers to bring as much as possible onboard.

Twenty-five years ago, U.S. airline passengers could generally bring two full-sized carry-on bags without issue due to less crowded flights and no charges for checked luggage. Restrictions began post-9/11 with federalized security checkpoints aiming to limit the number of items screened.

The trend of bringing more carry-ons started around 2008 when airlines introduced fees for the first checked bag. This pushed more luggage into cabins. Southwest Airlines faces fewer issues with full overhead bins compared to United, Delta, and American because they do not charge for up to two 50-pound checked bags.

Airlines have installed larger bins both for customer convenience and operational efficiency since gate-checking delays boarding processes. Delays can accumulate across flights leading to missed connections and inefficient fleet use.

However, larger bins are not always effective as efficient use of space is inconsistent among passengers who may place multiple items or jackets in the bins instead of under seats.

Gate agents often require early gate checking even when there’s still plenty of space available due to pressure to ensure timely departures rather than ensuring all passenger items fit in the cabin.

Ultimately, despite larger bins and increased allowances for carry-ons, many passengers still face mandatory gate checks due largely to operational pressures faced by gate agents.