United Airlines hikes checked bag fees by $10 as fuel prices climb

United Airlines It raised its checked baggage fee by $10 on Thursday, becoming the second U.S. carrier in less than a week to raise the fee at a time when the industry is grappling with this year’s rise in fuel costs, airlines’ biggest expense after labor.

United’s new fee for most domestic itineraries will be $45 to check the first bag if the passenger pays in advance, or $50 if they pay within 24 hours of the flight.

“United is increasing first and second checked bag fees by $10 for customers traveling in the U.S., Mexico, Canada and Latin America, starting with tickets purchased on Friday, April 3,” the carrier said.

United last increased checked baggage fees in 2024 and, like other carriers, is trying to absorb the recent increase in jet fuel costs.

Fuel prices in Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles and New York averaged $4.56 per gallon on Wednesday, according to Argus data published by industry group Airlines for America; This is up more than 82% since the US and Israel attacked Iran on February 28.

JetBlue Airlines It increased checked baggage fees on Monday by at least $4 per bag and up to $9 per bag, depending on when the customer books the trip, CNBC first reported.

Competitors often follow such wage increases as well. But there are gaps. Airline credit cards often give customers a free checked bag when traveling domestically by coach, and this often comes as a benefit with elite frequent flyer status. Plus, first class seats usually have a free checked bag.

“United Chase credit card holders, MileagePlus Premier members, active military members and customers traveling in premium cabins can continue to check their luggage for free, and customers in most markets will continue to receive a $5 discount if they prepay for their luggage online 24 hours before their flight,” United said.

Higher fuel levels are also seen at gas stations and other sectors. Amazon It adds a 3.5% “fuel and logistics-related surcharge” to the fees it collects from third-party sellers that use fulfillment services, CNBC reported early Thursday.

— CNBC’s Annie Palmer contributed to this article.