WASHINGTON - Many of the nation's largest airlines are giving military personnel on official travel a pass on expensive baggage fees when they carry heavy duffel bags stuffed with combat gear.

Faced with criticism from veterans groups and others that the fees are a financial burden, several airlines have announced exceptions for service members.

AirTran Airways, Continental Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Northwest Airlines and United Airlines said Friday they were waiving all or most of their baggage fees for active members of the U.S. military on official travel.

Earlier this week, American Airlines, Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air began waiving their fee to check a third bag for active service members.

Many airlines struggling with the high cost of jet fuel implemented or increased baggage fees this year. Some service members, including those deploying to and from combat zones, have said they've been asked to pay as much as $300 extra for overweight duffel bags that may include body armor and other vital combat equipment.

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