Interesting Idea

Once upon a time, to fly was to be pampered at 35,000 feet.

Flight attendants sprang into action to offer passengers hot meals, snacks, beverages, magazines, pillows and blankets, all for the price of a ticket.

But most of that service is history now -- or at least the days of getting it for free are gone -- as struggling airlines look to cut costs and keep ticket prices low by eliminating amenities or making passengers pay for them.

Northwest Airlines is expected to announce today that it will begin charging customers more for seats with added legroom, including coveted emergency exit row and some aisle seats. The price: an extra $15 for each leg of the flight. Northwest calls them "Coach Choice" seats.