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 has increased checked baggage fees by $10 for domestic and short-haul international flights, citing rising jet fuel costs due to global conflicts. The new fees are $45 for the first bag, $55 for the second, and $200 for a third bag.
- Delta raises checked baggage fees by $10 starting Wednesday
- New fees: $45 (first bag), $55 (second bag), $200 (third bag)
- Jet fuel prices have surged due to conflicts in the Middle East
- United and JetBlue previously raised their baggage fees
- Complimentary bags still available for premium cabin passengers, military personnel, and eligible loyalty members
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.
Delta follows United Airlines and JetBlue Airways, which also raised their baggage fees last week. 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.
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.
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