Jet Blue, United Airlines raising bag fees as jet fuel prices soar during Iran war

Two airlines are increasing baggage fees while jet fuel prices are soaring during the Iran war.

United Airlines is the latest carrier to raise those fees — by $10 for passengers purchasing tickets starting Friday in North America and Latin America, the airline announced, marking the first bag fee increase by United in two years.

JetBlue also raised its baggage fees by up to $9 per bag as it, too, faces increased costs. Checking a bag on JetBlue flights will cost $39 for the first bag during off-peak travel times, and $49 during peak travel times, including the summer and spring break. The fees increase after check-in begins, which generally is 24 hours before a scheduled departure. Bag fees for trans-Atlantic flights are slightly higher.

United CEO Scott Kirby issued a memo to employees last month saying the airline was bracing for oil to reach $175 a barrel, noting that jet fuel prices had already doubled. The increased expenses were expected to cost the airline up to $11 billion per year if prices don't come down.

United MileagePlus and Premier members, along with active military and United Chase credit card users, can still check bags for free. United said customers can save $5 off baggage fees if they prepay for bags at least 24 hours before their flight.

The new checked baggage fees will be up to $50 for the first bag, or $45 when prepaid. A second bag will cost $60 and a third bag will cost $200.

With AP

By John Asbury

john.asbury@newsday.comJohnAsbury

John Asbury is a breaking news and general assignment reporter. He has been with Newsday since 2014 and previously worked at The Press-Enterprise in Riverside, California.