Brand New Baggage Fees Increase Costs for Air Travelers
Flying just got pricier as airlines introduce new baggage fees ahead of the busy summer travel season. Charging for luggage is one strategy airlines use to boost ticket prices and cover their operational expenses. Air New Zealand, in particular, has significantly raised its baggage fees, impacting passengers across various flight routes.
Air New Zealand Increases Luggage Fees Across the Board
Air New Zealand recently implemented higher fees for excess, overweight, and pre-booked baggage, making air travel more expensive for its customers. As of May 23, 2024, passengers began to feel the effects of these increased charges, with notifications sent out through the industry-specific newsletter “Wingtips.” Notably, overweight baggage fees saw the most significant spike, doubling in cost.
Breakdown of Increased Baggage Fees
For domestic flights, the pre-paid baggage fee surged from $35 (£16.90) to $45 (£21.70), while short-haul trips saw an increase from $70 (£34) to $95 (£45.80). Long-haul flights experienced the highest jump, with fees going from $120 (£57.90) to $160 (£77.15) for pre-paid baggage.
Overweight baggage fees also saw substantial growth, jumping from $20 (£9.60) to $40 (£19.30) for domestic flights, and from $40 (£19.30) to $80 (£38.60) for short-haul trips. Long-haul overweight baggage fees skyrocketed from $60 (£28.95) to $120 (£57.90).
Excess baggage charges climbed from $45 (£21.70) to $60 (£28.95) for domestic flights, $90 (£43.40) to $115 (£55.45) for short-haul journeys, and $150 (£72.35) to $195 (£94) for long-haul flights, placing a significant burden on travelers.
Reason Behind the Fee Hike
Air New Zealand’s chief customer and sales officer, Leanne Geraghty, cited a “high-cost environment” as the rationale behind the fee increases. She advises customers to add extra bags during booking or before departure to avoid costly excess baggage charges.
Pets and Baggage: Equal Pricing
In addition to baggage fees, the airline also raised domestic pet carriage costs, establishing a flat rate of $120 (£57.90) for all animals, regardless of size or weight. This decision simplifies the pricing structure for pet travel and ensures a consistent cost for all passengers.
Strategies to Combat Luggage Costs
To circumvent escalating baggage fees, travelers can opt to fly with hand luggage only. Investing in luggage scales and selecting bags that align with airline hand luggage requirements can help avoid additional charges. While some carriers offer free checked bags on long-haul flights, passengers must verify their entitlements to prevent unexpected costs.
Industry-Wide Baggage Fee Increases
Air New Zealand is not the only airline raising baggage fees. Industry giants like JetBlue, American, United, and Frontier Airlines have also upped their charges to offset higher fuel and operational expenses. Understanding these cost changes and planning accordingly can help passengers navigate the evolving air travel landscape.
As airlines adjust their pricing structures, passengers must stay proactive in managing travel expenses and explore cost-saving strategies to make their journeys more affordable and enjoyable.