Delta Air Lines became the third US carrier in a week to raise its fee for checked bags. The changes would bring the fee to check a first piece of luggage on a domestic or short-haul international flight to $45, and $55 for a second bag. A third bag would cost $200.
Last week, United Airlines and JetBlue Airways increased their fees. The increases come as the industry deals with rising fuel prices resulting from the war in Iran.
In a statement, Delta said, “These updates are part of Delta’s ongoing review of pricing across its business and reflect the impact of evolving global conditions and industry dynamics.”
There are no changes for long-haul international routes, and Delta’s complimentary bag benefits — for Delta SkyMiles Medallion members, customers traveling in First Class, Premium Select and Delta One, active-duty military customers and those with eligible co-branded Delta SkyMiles American Express cards — will remain unchanged, according to the carrier.
The last time a number of airlines increased their checked-bag fees was early in 2024.
Jet fuel in major US cities cost $4.69 a gallon on Monday, according to Airlines for America, citing Argus data, up nearly 88% since the war began on Feb. 28. The key Strait of Hormuz shipping channel has remained effectively closed over the past month, choking off global crude and refined fuel supplies.
