United Airlines hikes checked bag fees by $10 as fuel prices climb
CNBC • • business
Key Points:
- United Airlines has increased its checked bag fee by $10, raising the cost to $45 for pre-paid first bags on most domestic flights and $50 if paid within 24 hours of departure, effective for tickets purchased from April 3.
- This fee hike follows a similar move by JetBlue Airways earlier in the week, reflecting the airline industry's response to a significant surge in jet fuel prices, which have risen over 82% since late February.
- United's fee increase applies to travel in the U.S., Mexico, Canada, and Latin America, but exemptions remain for United Chase credit card holders, MileagePlus Premier members, active military, and premium cabin passengers who still receive free checked bags.
- The rise in fuel costs is impacting other sectors as well, with companies like Amazon introducing additional fuel-related surcharges on fees charged to third-party sellers using its fulfillment services.
