united airlines
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united airlines increased its checked bag fee by $10 on Thursday, becoming the second U.S. airline in less than a week to raise the fee as the industry grapples with this year's rise in fuel costs, airlines' biggest expense after labor.
United's new fee will be $45 for checking the first bag on most domestic itineraries if the traveler pays in advance and $50 if they pay within 24 hours of their flight.
“United will increase first and second checked bag fees by $10 for customers traveling in the United States, Mexico, Canada and Latin America starting with tickets purchased on Friday, April 3,” the airline said.
United last raised checked baggage fees in February 2024 and, like other airlines, is trying to cover the recent rise in jet fuel costs.
Fuel prices for Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles and New York averaged $4.88 a gallon on Thursday, nearly double the price from the day before the United States and Israel attacked Iran on Feb. 28, according to Argus data published by industry group Airlines for America.
JetBlue Airways on Monday raised its checked bag fees by at least $4 per bag, and up to $9 per bag, depending on when a customer's trip is booked, CNBC first reported.
Competitors often do the same with these types of rate increases. However, there are gaps. Airline credit cards often provide customers with a free checked bag when flying domestic itineraries in economy class, and it's typically a perk for elite frequent flyers. Additionally, first class seats typically include a free checked bag.
“United Chase credit cardholders, MileagePlus Premier members, active military members and customers traveling in premium cabins can still check a bag for free, and customers in most markets will continue to enjoy a $5 discount if they prepay for their bags online 24 hours before their flight,” United said.
A higher level of fuel is also being observed at gas stations and in other sectors. Amazon is adding a 3.5% “fuel and logistics-related surcharge” to the fees it collects from third-party sellers who use its fulfillment services, CNBC reported Thursday.
— CNBC Annie Palmer contributed to this article.
