First JetBlue, Now United: US Airlines Are Imposing New Bag Fees As A Result of Skyrocketing Jet Fuel Prices

As a result of the war in Iran, the price of jet fuel is taking off — it’s up 82% since Feb. 28. And unfortunately, it won’t just be more expensive airfares you’ll be worrying about. As Americans start booking spring and summer trips, travelers bringing extra luggage may face new surcharges for heavier bags.

• On Monday, JetBlue announced that it would raise the price of your first checked bag from $35 to $39 off peak and from $40 to $49 during periods of peak travel.
• United followed suit with changes on Friday, raising checked bag fees by $10 — you’ll pay $45 for your first bag if you prepay and $50 if you pay within 24 hours.

More to follow? For the most part, the US airline industry is a ‘copycat’ business. And with two domestic carriers now levying bag surcharges, you can expect that even more could follow suit, taking permission from each other. If you don’t have an airline credit card that grants you free bags, you might stick to a carry-on until the fees have gone.