Perhaps it is only fitting that Farelogix has turned its iflybags baggage-fee calculation service into a paid iPhone app.
Like iflybags.com, which debuted in October 2011, the $0.99 per download iOS app takes industry-standard data and rules from more than 325 airlines around the globe, and enables travelers to view calculations of baggage allowances and fees based on their class of service and frequent flyer status.
Beyond frequent flyer status, the website and app even enable travelers to input their credit card type to retrieve a fees' analysis. Mulitple travelers and bags also fit into the calculation.
The app was published in iTunes March 5 and is currently available for a "spring break" promotional fee of $0.99 per download.
When the promotional period ends, Farelogix plans to charge $1.99 per download, says spokesperson Sue Carter.
So why go with a paid app?
"One obvious reason is that seek to recoup part or all of the development investment," Carter says. "In addition, the price (a one-time fee for unlimited use of the app) is an extremely fair value., keeping in mind users always have the free website if they don't want to pay for the convenience of the mobile app."
So, how has iflybags.com been faring?
Carter says traffic is up 350% since January and Farelogix believes this is because travel agencies are using it for themselves and their customers, "and also as a tool that assists with DOT (US Department of Transportation) regulation compliance about first and second bag fee disclosures."
iflybags.com "will always be free to consumers," Carter adds, and as such it is not a revenue producer for Farelogix.
However, the ad-free status of the website could change in the future because advertisers have expressed interest in the site, she says.