New Airline Luggage Fees: Get Ready to Pay More for Checked Bags
MORE airlines have joined other carriers in increasing their checked luggage fees. Over the last two weeks, three major American airlines have upped their prices, as well as cutting travel perks.
Delta Airlines Increases Checked Bag Fees
Delta joined American and United in raising their checked baggage fees, effective Tuesday. The price hike now costs passengers an extra $5 for their first and second checked bags on most U.S.-originating domestic and short-haul international routes. Travelers can now expect to pay $35 for their first piece of luggage and $45 for the second.
Perk Holders Exempt from Price Hike
The price changes will not affect perk holders, including Medallion members, first-class travelers, and Delta credit card holders, who will continue to receive complimentary bags. Additionally, passengers who purchased their tickets before Tuesday will not be affected by the new prices.
Reasons Behind the Price Increase
The new prices mark the airline’s first hike since 2018, which Delta said was implemented to help it keep up with rising industry costs. Baggage fees rake in large profits for airlines and accounted for over $33 billion in revenue in 2023, according to IdeaWorks, an airline-revenue consultancy.
American Airlines Bag Fee Changes
American and United Airlines also announced similar changes, with American raising its bag fees and revamping its miles system to encourage travelers to book directly with the airline. Starting May 1, to qualify for AAdvantage frequent flyer miles, flights must be booked with American Airlines, preferred travel agencies, and eligible partners. Travelers can no longer expect to earn points or miles on basic economy tickets not booked directly with American Airlines or its partner airlines.
United Airlines Increases Checked Bag Fees
Passengers flying with United can expect to pay $35 for their first checked bag on a domestic flight if booked online, and $40 for a bag in person. A second bag will cost them $45 regardless of whether they paid in-person or online. United also raised the price of their domestic flight checked luggage by $5 for economy-class passengers.
The three airlines followed in the steps of JetBlue and Alaska, which announced similar price increases earlier this year.