JetBlue has increased its checked baggage fees as airlines face rising fuel and operating costs.
Checked bag fees rise as more travelers adopt airline baggage policies
More travelers are checking their bags as airlines improve their tracking tools, fees become commonplace, and credit card benefits expand.
- JetBlue has increased its checked baggage fees due to rising operating costs.
- The airline was the first U.S. airline to increase baggage fees in response to soaring oil prices related to the Iran war.
- The minimum charge for your first checked bag is now $39, up from $35.
JetBlue has increased its checked baggage fees due to increased operating costs.
JetBlue appears to be the first U.S. airline to raise baggage fees as a result of soaring oil prices, which are hurting the finances of airlines across the industry as the Iran war drags on.
“As we experience increased operating costs, we regularly evaluate ways to manage these costs while keeping our base fares competitive and continuing to invest in the experiences our customers value,” the airline told USA TODAY in a statement. “By adjusting prices for optional services that some of our customers take advantage of, such as checked baggage, we are able to continue to offer more competitive fares while still providing the in-flight experience that our customers love, including complimentary snacks and drinks, unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi, and seatback entertainment screens.”
JetBlue passengers will now have to pay a minimum of $39 to check their bags, up from $35. Passengers who pay within 24 hours of departure will be charged a $10 surcharge, and travelers who fly during long weekends or peak summer periods will also be charged a premium. A complete schedule of checked baggage fees can be found on the JetBlue website.
JetBlue’s Mosaic frequent flyer status holders and those with the airline’s co-branded credit card will continue to be able to check their first bag for free.
Some JetBlue fares already include a checked bag. Baggage fees on transatlantic flights start at $64 for basic economy ticket holders.
JetBlue did not immediately clarify whether the new fees would apply to existing reservations or only to new ticket purchases.
The airline’s decision reflects widespread economic uncertainty as the war continues. This reminds me of the baggage fees first imposed by US airlines.
American Airlines introduced checked baggage fees in 2008 due to rising oil prices.
This article has been updated to update the headline.
Zach Wichter is a travel reporter and writes the Cruising Altitude column for USA TODAY. He is based in New York and can be reached at zwichter@usatoday.com.
