A recent online campaign that encouraged air travelers to post “shameful” photos of fellow passengers with oversized carry-on bags has taken a more constructive turn thanks to Boeing’s practical response to everyday travel problems.
The Seattle-based aircraft manufacturer is offering a new option for its 737 design: larger overhead bins, called Space Bins, that can hold six standard carry-on bags each. That’s a 50 percent increase from the previous bin capacity of four bags per bin.
Alaska Airlines has reportedly ordered the first 737s equipped with the Space Bin option, with deliveries expected in late 2015.
By providing more realistic carry-on storage, the upgraded bins should help reduce boarding conflicts sparked by social-media “shaming,” shorten boarding times, improve on-time performance and lessen the need for flight attendant intervention.