United Airlines has raised its fees for first and second checked bags by $10, becoming the second U.S. carrier to increase such fees this week. The airline announced that the new prices will apply to flights in the U.S., Mexico, Canada, and Latin America for tickets purchased from Friday, April 3 onwards.
Key Takeaways
United Airlines has raised its fees for first and second checked bags by $10, following JetBlue's similar increase earlier this week. The changes are attributed to rising fuel costs due to geopolitical tensions in the Middle East.
- United Airlines raises bag fees by $10 starting April 3
- First checked bag now costs $45 if paid ahead of time and $50 within 24 hours of flight
- Second checked bag fee increases to $55 for advance payment and $60 within 24 hours
- JetBlue also increased its fees this week, citing rising operating costs
- Fuel prices have surged due to the Iran war and closure of the Strait of Hormuz
According to United, the price for a first checked bag will now be $45 if paid ahead of time and $50 if paid within 24 hours of the flight. The fee for a second checked bag will be $55 in advance or $60 within 24 hours of departure. The changes do not affect customers who have already purchased their tickets before April 3.
The increase follows JetBlue's decision to hike its checked bag fees earlier this week, also citing rising operating costs. As reported by CNBC, fuel prices have surged due to the ongoing war in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which has constricted oil supplies. Brent crude rose 7.7% to $109 per barrel on Thursday afternoon, while benchmark U.S. crude climbed 11.9% to $111.81, according to CBS News.
Airlines have been grappling with elevated fuel costs, which have increased by roughly 80% since the conflict began. United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby told CBS News that these higher oil prices create significant stress for airlines, noting that airfares have increased between 15% to 20% over the past month.
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