Agree, it is the one thing that I like about Spirit. Boarding and deplaning goes really really quickly there.
I am sure that is coming.....with the checked bag fees remaining. Airlines will not give up on proven sources of revenue that does not have a negative impact on their loads.
Airlines rather give the free checked bags to their co branded credit card holders where they are making more money then what the checked bag fee brings in.
The airline industry is in the midst of a radical change to cut capacity, increase loads on their flights, and squeeze out every extra cent they can. They need to do this to remain profitable with in a time where fuel prices are so high.
This will come along with increased benefits and more exclusive service to their most loyal customers.
Although the mainline carriers are not classified as LCC's, they are continuing to resemble that model very closely.