More U.S. airlines give troops relief from checked-bag fees

After a video of soldiers complaining about baggage fees on Delta went viral, American Airlines announced Thursday it will allow military personnel to check an extra two bags with no out-of-pocket expense, and AirTran Airways said it will waive baggage charges for "members of the military who are traveling on active duty orders," CNN reported.

Delta amended its policy -- now allowing servicemembers to check four bags free in coach and five in other classes -- on Wednesday, shortly after Stars and Stripes published a story on the soldiers' video. Previously Delta had allowed only three free bags for troops flying coach.

American's new policy lets troops check five bags free and allows one bag to weigh up to 100 pounds with no penalty, the CNN report said, while AirTran waives excess baggage charges on any bag under 100 pounds and 80 inches in size.

United/Continental also decided Wednesday to waive fees for servicemembers' fourth bags, CNN reported.