Delta Air Lines announced it is raising checked baggage fees by $10 for domestic and short-haul international flights starting Wednesday. The new fee structure brings the cost to $45 for the first bag, $55 for the second, and $200 for a third bag.
Key Takeaways
Delta Air Lines is raising checked baggage fees by $10 for domestic and short-haul international flights starting Wednesday. The new fee structure brings the cost to $45 for the first bag, $55 for the second, and $200 for a third bag.
- Delta raises baggage fees in response to rising jet fuel costs
- First bag now $45, second bag $55, third bag $200
- Jet fuel prices up nearly 88% since February 28
- American Airlines also raising basic economy baggage fees more significantly
- Airlines expect continued fee increases to offset higher fuel costs
The increase is part of Delta's ongoing pricing review in response to rising jet fuel costs tied to conflicts in the Middle East. According to Argus Media, the average price for a gallon of jet fuel in major U.S. cities was $4.69 on Monday, up nearly 88% since February 28.
The surge in jet fuel prices has added significant costs for airlines. Delta CEO Ed Bastian reported that the jump in jet fuel prices had already added about $400 million to Delta's operating expenses since the conflict began. Analysts suggest that U.S. carriers are likely to continue raising ancillary fees and ticket prices to offset higher fuel costs.
Delta follows United Airlines, JetBlue Airways, and now American Airlines, which have also raised their baggage fees in recent weeks. The airline noted that complimentary bags will still be available to customers flying in premium cabins, active-duty military personnel, eligible co-branded credit card holders, and members of certain loyalty tiers.
In a statement, a Delta spokesperson said the new fee structure would take effect on Wednesday. According to industry advocacy group Airlines for America, the average price of a gallon of jet fuel in four major air hubs – Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, and New York – has increased from $2.50 on February 27 to $4.81 on Tuesday.
Delta also announced it expected to record a pre-tax profit of about $1 billion in the quarter that will end in June. The airline reported breaking its previous March-quarter record with $15.9 billion in revenue, underscoring what CEO Ed Bastian called 'the power of our brand and the durability of our financial foundation.'
The move comes as several airlines face increased fuel costs due to extra miles required to avoid flying over conflict zones. Major international carriers including Qantas, Cathay Pacific, and Thai Airways have also imposed fuel surcharges.
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