US Airlines Increase Checked Baggage Charges Due to Rising Fuel Expenses

American Airlines and Alaska Air have raised checked baggage fees in response to increasing jet fuel prices. American Airlines announced a $10 increase for the first and second checked bags for customers booking domestic and short-haul international flights, effective Thursday. Additionally, the airline has hiked the fee for a third checked bag by $50, bringing it to $200.

Alaska Air intends to increase checked bag fees by $5 for the first bag and $10 for the second for travelers on its North American flights, which includes those operated by its subsidiary Hawaiian Airlines. The price for a third checked bag has also been raised to $200. The airline noted that its loyalty programs remain unchanged and will still provide checked baggage benefits for intra-state travel within Hawaii and Alaska.

American Airlines further stated that starting May 18, there will be an additional $5 increase on checked bags for customers flying with basic economy tickets. On the same date, basic economy passengers will incur a fee for seat selection and will not qualify for complimentary system-wide upgrades. Passengers in premium cabins will continue to enjoy free baggage on both domestic and international flights.
These fee increases are implemented as airlines aim to compensate for higher fuel costs. Jet fuel prices, which averaged around $85 to $90 per barrel in February, have surged to about $209 per barrel globally, according to the International Air Transport Association.

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