Accuracy of luggage scales at NYC airports

NEW YORK -- New York City officials say virtually all of the luggage scales at the city's two major airports are accurately calibrated.

Department of Consumer Affairs Commissioner Jonathan Mintz announced the findings Friday as travelers prepare to take to the skies during the holiday season.

Last year, airlines began charging baggage fees. Mintz said he wanted to make sure travelers aren't overcharged.

Inspectors checked all 741 scales at John F. Kennedy International and LaGuardia airports during a three-week sweep.

They found 92 percent in compliance.

After the airlines fixed the faulty scales, they were re-inspected and the compliance rate rose to nearly 98 percent. The remaining faulty scales are under stop-use orders.

(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)