United Raises Bag Fees, Following JetBlue’s Lead as Fuel Costs Soar
The New York Times • • general
Key Points:
- United Airlines announced a $10 increase in its checked-bag fee starting Friday, with domestic economy passengers potentially paying up to $50, excluding those in premium cabins or with elite status and airline credit cards.
- JetBlue Airways also raised its checked-bag fees earlier this week, with increases ranging from $4 to $9 depending on travel dates and payment timing, affecting passengers without free checked-bag benefits.
- Both airlines cited rising operating costs, linked to soaring oil prices amid the war in Iran, as the reason for the fee hikes, marking rare increases after a period of stable baggage fees.
- Industry experts suggest that these initial fee increases by JetBlue and United could prompt other U.S. carriers to raise their baggage fees in response to higher fuel costs.
- Currently, most major U.S. airlines charge around $35 for the first checked bag on domestic flights, making these recent increases notable changes in the market.
