Major U.S. Airlines Increase Checked Bag Fees

Airlines cite inflation and rising operating costs as reasons for the hikes, while offering tips on avoiding extra charges.

Three major U.S. airlines, including American Airlines, JetBlue, and Alaska Air, have raised their checked bag fees since the start of 2024, with increases of nearly 30% in some cases.
American Airlines cites ongoing inflation and increased fuel and operating costs as reasons for the fee hikes.
Travelers can avoid these fees by using travel and airline credit cards offering perks such as free checked bags or applying travel credits toward baggage fees.
Airlines offer various ways to save on baggage fees, including checking bags online in advance and using specific credit cards co-branded with airlines.
The changes in baggage fees apply to all tickets purchased on or after February 20, 2024, affecting flights within the U.S., to Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and Guyana.