Avoid the queues and board early - for a fee

The early bird gets the overhead baggage space, but pays for the privilege - at least on Southwest Airlines.

Dallas-based Southwest said on Wednesday it started charging passengers US$10 (A$12) each way to board flights before general check-in starts, but after premium passengers, including those flying Business Select.

The service, known as EarlyBird Check-in, became available for purchase yesterday for flights beginning today onwards. The offering allows passengers to select seats and secure overhead bin space, said Southwest, which does not typically assign seats.

The fee will also create "incremental revenue opportunities for Southwest," the low-cost carrier said.

Tough times in the airline industry have forced carriers such as Southwest to find new ways to drum up cash. In May, the airline started allowing some pets on board for a $75 fee and announced a $25 charge for unaccompanied minors.

Southwest has so far refused to charge passengers for bags, unlike most other major US airlines.

Reuters