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Baggage Fee Adjustments
Comparison of fee changes for checked bags on major airlines.
Primary Sources
These airlines are raising baggage fees amid rising fuel costs
Published April 4, 2026 1:11pm CDT Gas price worries continue across US amid Iran war We are now hearing that President Donald Trump believes the U.S. military is close to accomplishing its goals in Iran. This comes as oil prices rise again, reportedly topping $109 per barrel. According to Fox Business, drivers on the West Coast are seeing the highest costs, with prices reaching $5.89 per gallon in California and $5.35 in Washington. LiveNOW’s Andy Mac is speaking to Matt McClain from GasBuddy who has more on how the Iran conflict is impacting gas prices. Travelers are watching America’s biggest airlines to see which one will be the next to announce higher fees as jet fuel prices continue to soar. Jet fuel costs have more than doubled in the six weeks since the U.S. and Israel started a war with Iran. Fuel is typically the second biggest expense for airlines after labor. JetBlue was the first U.S. airline to announce baggage fee hikes, with United following suit the same week. So far, it’s still unclear if and when other airlines might do the same. Here’s what we know: JetBlue Airways By the numbers: JetBlue Airways is increasing baggage fees by $4 to $9 for economy travelers. For flights within the U.S., Caribbean, and Latin America, the first checked bag will now cost $39 during off-peak travel (up from $35) and $49 during peak periods (up from $40). Travelers who pay less than 24 hours before departure will still incur an additional $10 fee. RELATED: JetBlue hikes baggage fees as Iran conflict drives up jet fuel costs Passengers with qualifying JetBlue co-branded credit cards or elite frequent flyer status will continue to be exempt from baggage fees. United Airlines United Airlines is raising checked bag fees by $10 to $50 for travelers purchasing tickets starting April 3. RELATED: United Airlines checked bag fees climbs $10-50 as fuel prices nearly double since Iran war Customers flying within the U.S., Mexico, Canada and Latin America can expect a $10 increase on first and second checked bags, while the fee for a third bag will jump by an additional $50. Currently, tickets sold through April 2 list prepaid bag fees at $35 for the first bag, $45 for the second, and $150 for the third. Starting Friday, those fees will increase to $45, $55 and $200, respectively. FILE - Airport luggage in Athens, Greece (Photo by Jakub Porzycki/NurPhoto via Getty Images) Similarly, bags paid within 24 hours of travel currently cost $40 for the first bag, $50 for the sec...
United Airlines Raises Checked Bag Fees: New Price List - TODAY
The cost of flying just got more expensive.United Airlines has announced it will increase the cost of checking bags, effective April 3.The cost of a first and second checked bag will go up by $10 for tickets purchased on or after April 3, 2026, the airline states on its website. The cost of a third checked bag will go up by $50.The cost of checking a bag with United Airlines is now $45 if you prepay, $50 if you pay at the airport lobby and $75 at the gate. You can also check the cost of bags on the airline’s baggage fee calculator.MileagePlus Premier members can check bags for free. There are different benefits for those who've attained various levels of membership.United most recently increased the price of checked bags in February 2024, according to CNBC.United is the latest carrier to boost prices on checked bags. Earlier this week, JetBlue changed its rates, with the first piece of baggage on domestic, Caribbean and Latin America flights jumping from $35 to $39 for off-peak flights for the majority of economy passengers. During peak travel times, the cost has been bumped from $40 to $49. If you pay within 24 hours of your flight, the cost is $10 more.The increase in baggage fees comes amid the United States’ war with Iran, which has raised the cost of fuel.
United Airlines hikes checked bag fees by $10 as fuel prices climb - CNBC
United Airlines became the second U.S. carrier in a week to raise check bag fees as the industry grapples with a more than 80% jump in jet fuel costs.
The domino effect of airlines raising baggage fees has started
With airlines often raising prices for baggage in waves as soon as a competitor does the same, it did not take long for United Airlines to follow suit and raise its checked baggage fees from $35 ...
