Senators to airlines: Drop bag fees to shorten airport lines

DALLAS (AP) — Two U.S. senators say the way to reduce long airport security lines this summer is for airlines to drop their fees on checking luggage.

It’s the latest suggestion for dealing what is shaping as a hellish summer at the nation’s airports. Airlines are already warning passengers to arrive at least two hours early to get through security and catch their flight.

Massachusetts Democrat Edward Markey and Connecticut Democrat Richard Blumenthal said Tuesday they asked executives at 12 airlines to drop checked-bag fees this summer.

The senators say suspending the fees won’t eliminate lines but it’s a start.