by Alison Storm | 05/5/10

The idea of paying extra for checking bags at the airport doesn't sit well with a lot of travelers. But Delta Air just released a new way to avoid some of the fees they're tacking on. US Consumer and Small Business Gold, Platinum and Reserve Delta Sky Miles Credit Cardmembers will have the benefit of a free checked bag on every Delta flight. This will save cardholders as much as $50 on a round-trip ticket.

The perk carries over for up to nine people in the same flight reservation, according to a news release issued by Delta and American Express. That means a family of four could reduce fees by up to $200 for a round-trip flight. "We are delighted to offer this new benefit to our Delta SkyMiles Cardmembers," Tracey Beberman, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Co-Brand Partnerships, American Express, said in a news release.  "Cardmembers have told us that they value being recognized when they travel with Delta.  We believe that this new first checked bag free benefit does just that and more.  It provides tangible savings for Delta SkyMiles Credit Cardmembers when they fly."

"Baggage fee waivers are one of the benefits we provide to reward some of our most engaged customers.," Jeff Robertson, Vice President - SkyMiles, said in a news release. "The long-standing relationship with American Express has given us the ability to now extend this valuable benefit to Delta SkyMiles Credit Cardmembers and their traveling companions." However, if you're flying First Class or Business Class or you're a member of SkyMiles Medallion, you already receive two checked bags for free.