[Adrienne]

The determination of whether or not the bag is oversized has nothing to do with dimension but whether or not the employee has an attitude. I had the same thing happen yesterday January 4th, 2009.

My bag has flown on most airlines domestically and internationally. It's been measured once and even stuffed it wasn't over-sized but in AirTran inches, it's a monster. She measured faster than anyone I've ever seen and no supervisor was readily available. By now it's just under an hour before my flight and I want to be at the gate, not arguing at the counter. I call 1-800-AIRTRAN from the airport and they saw to go back, wait another 45 minutes in line, have my bag pulled from wherever it goes, wait for the supervisor and have them measure. At the same time miss my flight and get sacked with more fees.

I flew with the same bag on AirTran 5 days prior with no problem. The bag did not have the extender open nor was anything packed in the front compartments but she measured "at least" 61.5". Yes, my 3/4 full standard Samsonite roller suddenly became oversized. 61.5" for a soft front suitcase they are going to smash into the cargo hold.

So yes, I will agree that they are a ripoff and exceptionally rude. The ticket counter agent did more eye rolling than my teenage niece and my ticket purchase pays her. That unwarranted $39 fee cost them the thousands we spend flying each year. But not just my thousands. I've already told my parents, brothers/their wives, some friends and coworkers. I'm sure I will reach the rest of the people on my list by the end of this week. This was my first AirTran experience and my last.

But all of that isn't the kicker. At baggage claim two identical bags are on the conveyor. Mine and another just like it. I take mine and casually stroll to the other passenger to ask if he paid the oversize fee as well. His response? "Why would I do that? This bag isn't oversized." And his bag was full.

Good luck in the future AirTran and I suggest you use those fees to hire new reps or pay for a class for the ones you have!