JetBlue puts a price on its pillows

$7 buys one (plus a blanket) to keep

Facing record fuel prices, US airlines have been eliminating many freebies, such as soft drinks. (Damian Dovarganes/Associated Press/File 2006)

Wondering what airlines will charge you for next? Try pillows and blankets.

JetBlue Airways yesterday said it would sell a pillow and blanket set for $7 on flights of two hours or more. The set, which passengers can take home, includes a 10-by-12-inch pillow and a blanket which fit into a carrying case.

The kits come with a $5 coupon for Bed Bath & Beyond.

"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 Brett Muney, JetBlue's general manager for product development. "We are constantly seeking ways to enhance the in-flight experience for our customers."

Many major airlines got rid of pillows and blankets on domestic flights in 2005, when the industry was hit by a wave of bankruptcy filings. They are still offered by Southwest and Continental in the United States, and most airlines provide them on overseas flights.

Airlines have faced record prices for jet fuel in 2008, prompting them to charge for a variety of things that used to be free. Last week, US Airways began charging for coffee, tea, water, and soft drinks. Several airlines now charge for checked bags.