WASHINGTON, US - CUT-PRICE JetBlue airline on Monday announced a US$7 (S$9.60) blanket and pillow charge on flights longer than two hours, the latest in a series of surcharges US airlines are introducing to offset a slump in the business.

Hit by spiralling fuel prices and shrinking airline travel, US airlines have been cutting back on expenses, cancelling flights and adding surcharges on services previously included in the cost of a ticket.

At the weekend, US Airways announced a US$2 surcharge for water and US$1 for coffee aboard their flights, adding that only first class passengers on transatlantic flights could expect free water.

Three other US airlines, American, United and US Airways have already introduced a surcharge of between US$15 and US$20 for a second piece of luggage on domestic flights.

JetBlue in its marketing strategy for the new, seven-dollar surcharge said they have created 'The World's Cleanest' travel pillow and blanket kit, made from 'a fabric that blocks all micro-toxins ... such as dust mites, mold spores, pollen and pet dander.' The 'take-home travel kit' fits in a carrying case 'for use on future trips,' the airline said in a statement.

'Replacing our old, recycled pillows and blankets with this state-of-the-art, high-quality take home kit is an eco-conscious, health-conscious and customer-conscious decision,' said JetBlue Airways General Manager of Product Development Brett Muney. -- AFP