Major U.S. Airlines Soar Baggage Fees, Leaving Travelers in Turbulence

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

United Airlines raises checked bag fees, joining major U.S. airlines in adjusting charges amid rising costs and aiming for transparency and profitability.

United Airlines has now aligned with American Airlines and JetBlue Airways by increasing the fees for checked luggage for travelers within North America. This adjustment mirrors the widespread approach among leading US airline companies.

According to a report from Reuters, starting February 24, United’s customers flying domestically will encounter higher charges for their first and second pieces of checked luggage, irrespective of whether the fees are settled beforehand or at the time of check-in.

This development is in response to the rising operational expenses faced by US airlines, notably in the areas of maintenance and workforce agreements, coupled with a diminishing ability to command prices in the domestic sphere.

The collection of baggage fees has evolved into a crucial source of income for these airlines, with figures nearing $6.8 billion for 2022 and $5.5 billion within the initial three quarters of 2023 alone.

JetBlue Airways explains that the hike in baggage fees is a strategic move to manage escalating operational costs, such as increased salary demands, fuel prices, and other economic pressures.

The carrier emphasizes that revising these charges is essential to counterbalance these surging expenses and achieve financial stability, especially in light of the persistent economic strains initiated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Following the industry’s direction, American Airlines also increased its charges for the first checked bag, setting the fee at $35 when booked online in advance, or $40 for payments made at the airport.

Senator Richard Blumenthal, leading the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, has voiced his concern regarding the various fees imposed by airlines, including those for baggage, seat selection, and amendments to tickets.

The Department of Transportation in the US has put forward suggested rules to compel airlines to upfront disclose fees related to baggage, changes in tickets, and seating arrangements for families, aiming to improve transparency for airline customers.

These suggestions are part of broader discussions on regulating airline fees and safeguarding consumer rights in the aviation sector.

Despite criticism in 2018 for abandoning efforts to enforce “reasonable and proportional” fees for baggage and changes, under industry pressure, the continuous examination and proposed regulations indicate a persistent effort to address consumer issues and promote accountability in the airline sector.

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