But then I would be denied reading Sumo's words.
Let me just say, in passing, that American Airlines is a vile jobbing coxcomb, a mewling company destined for the scrapheap decades ago and only reprieved because bankruptcy law does not punish failure so much as reward incompetence. (But apparently does not rewards it enough, being too good for the numerous banks and auto builders that so richly deserve the vampire's kiss). I don't know where the fine print was that said "After paying for this ticket months in advance, we can tack on whatever fees we like at the gate" but I have high hopes that the (presumably Catholic) CEOs & Lawyers who wrote it will find themselves at the pearly gates being informed that while they had indeed confessed their sins and done penance, there were some last minute rules changes and some unpaid fees, and if they would just get in line to see the service agent (easy to spot because if his lovely tan, and screams of anguish from his satisfied customers) they'd work this out. Then St. Peter could apologize for any inconvenience.
And, say what you will about auto dealerships, but it only cost me $16 to fix having the bottom of my car fall off (not counting inconvenience). Donuts were provided, and they may have actually taken a loss on the deal. Time elapsed -- 30 minutes. Or, as I like to say, 1/3rd of a flight delay. No, wait, 1/5th. No, 1/10th. And counting.