Late last week, several major airlines quietly (well, they tried to do it quietly, but it didn't work) added a $10 surcharge for flights November 29 and January 2 and 3. That's the Sunday after Thanksgiving and the days when many travelers are returning from Christmas and New Year's trips. In other words, three of the busiest travel days of the year. Will they add the surcharge to more dates? My guess is yes, and soon.

This comes on the heels of an increase on checked-bag fees from $15 to $20 for the first bag, and $25 to $30 for the second 0n many carriers. Some "only" charge you $15 / $25 if you pay to check the bag online before your flight. US Airways ups the ante and charges $25 for the first bag and $35 for the second. Will the other carriers raise bag fees to match? My guess is yes, before the new year.

British Airways announced it would charge between 10 and 60 pounds ($16 - $96) to reserve a seat more than 24 hours before a flight. Interesting that this charge also applies to business-class customers. Will U.S. carriers follow? My guess is yes, in 2010.