Airlines Increase Checked-Bag Fees: What You Need to Know

Recently, Delta Air Lines has joined the ranks of major airlines raising checked-bag fees, a trend seen across the industry in recent months. Other airlines, including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, JetBlue, and United Airlines, have implemented similar price increases, consequently affecting travelers nationwide.

Beginning March 5, Delta announced a $5 increase for first and second checked bags on most U.S.-originating domestic and short-haul international routes. Importantly, this fee adjustment does not apply to tickets purchased before this date.

According to a Delta spokesperson, “Delta SkyMiles Medallion Members, customers flying with First Class, Delta Premium Select, and Delta One itineraries, along with holders of eligible co-branded Delta SkyMiles American Express Cards, will still enjoy their complimentary checked bag allowance.” Furthermore, no changes in fees will affect checked baggage on routes between the U.S./Canada and select countries in Latin America.

Current Checked-Bag Fees Across Major Airlines

Here’s a summary of what travelers can now expect to pay for checked bags on domestic flights across several major airlines:

Alaska Airlines

• $35 for the first bag (an increase from $30).
• $45 for the second bag (up from $40).

American Airlines

• $35 for the first bag purchased online for domestic flights, including to Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico (up from $30).
• $40 for the first bag on the same flights purchased at the airport (up from $35).
• $45 for the second bag on domestic flights (up from $40).

Delta Air Lines

• $35 for the first checked bag.
• $45 for the second checked bag.

JetBlue

JetBlue has also raised checked bag prices as of February 1. The updated fee structure is as follows:

If checking bags at least 24 hours before departure:

• $35 for the first bag on flights within the U.S., Latin America, Caribbean, and Canada.
• $50 for the second bag on those flights.

If checking bags within 24 hours of departure:

• $45 for the first bag on flights within the U.S., Latin America, Caribbean, and Canada.
• $60 for the second bag on these flights.

United Airlines

United Airlines has raised its checked-bag fees for tickets purchased on or after February 24. While specific fees were not disclosed, it is expected that the fees for the first and second checked bags will increase by $5 in most markets. For instance, a traveler from Orlando to Washington, D.C. can expect to pay $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second bag if fees are paid in advance.

Why Are Airlines Raising Fees?

The recent fee increases mark the first adjustments seen in several years. Various airlines provided minimal explanations; however, Delta indicated that the increase was necessary to help the airline “stay aligned with rising industry costs.” In the wake of previous adjustments, JetBlue pointed to inflationary pressures, including increased operational costs and recovery efforts following the COVID-19 pandemic.

It is worth noting that these new fees vary based on several factors, such as the number of bags checked, domestic versus international flights, and the timing of payment. Many airlines continue to waive checked bag fees for travelers who are part of loyalty programs.

In addition to fee updates, Delta is also reportedly considering removing its “Bags On Time” guarantee for domestic travel. Currently, this program awards travelers with bonus SkyMiles points if their checked bag does not arrive at the carousel within 20 minutes of landing, showcasing a shift in focus for the airline.