Smokeless cigarettes won't fly on U.S. planes

Smokeless cigarettes won't fly

The U.S. Department of Transportation says the use of smokeless electronic cigarettes on airplanes is prohibited, and plans to issue an official ban this spring.

The department has been informing airlines and the public that it interprets its smoking regulations to include e-cigarettes. E-cigarettes are plastic and metal devices that heat a liquid nicotine solution in a disposable cartridge, creating vapor that the "smoker" inhales. Numerous videos on YouTube show passengers using the devices on airplanes.

Higher bag fees, seat costs

U S Airways is raising the fee to check heavy luggage on its domestic flights to an extra $90 each. The old fee was $50. That's on top of the $25 to check a first bag and $35 for a second bag, which are not changing.

The higher fees for bags over 50 pounds are effective for tickets bought after Feb. 1. US Airways says it's raising the fees to the same levels charged by other airlines. It also raised fees on bags between 71 and 100 pounds.

Meanwhile, starting this summer, Delta Air Lines will offer a new "Economy Comfort" class on long-haul international flights. The premium seats will include more legroom, 50 percent more recline and free cocktails for an extra cost of $80-$160 one way.