JetBlue raises checked bag fees as fuel costs surge
Summarised from 3 outlets · Updated 4 Nov, 17:22 · Archive
JetBlue has raised checked baggage fees for the third time in a year as jet fuel costs continue to climb.
JetBlue Airways has raised checked baggage fees for the third time in less than a year as high fuel costs continue to squeeze airline finances. From Tuesday, checking a first bag for economy passengers costs $50 for off-peak travel, up from $45, or $60 if purchased within 24 hours of departure. During peak periods such as holidays or summer, the fee rises to $55, up from $49, or $70 within 24 hours of departure.
Exceptions apply for customers holding JetBlue co-branded credit cards or elite frequent flyer status. The airline said the increase "helps us keep our base fares competitive while giving customers the choice to pay for a checked bag only if they need one." Customers can save up to $15 on the first checked bag by adding it to their booking at least 24 hours before departure.
Jet fuel is airlines' biggest operational cost after labour. Fuel prices have roughly doubled this year, with jet fuel at $4.44 per gallon as of Tuesday for the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, up from around $2 per gallon in January. The price surge has cost airlines billions and driven up ticket prices across the industry.
Other major carriers often follow when one airline raises fees. Delta, United and Southwest have all increased their checked baggage fees this year. Industry observers note that higher baggage fees may remain in place even after fuel prices decline.
How it is being reported
- Major airline increases its checked bag fees — for the second time this yearThis marks the second time in less than a year that the Queens-based airline has raised baggage fees.New York Post · 4 Nov, 17:12
- JetBlue hikes baggage fees for the second time this yearAirlines have raised baggage fees and ticket prices to help offset the surging cost of jet fuel this year.CBS News · 3 Nov, 22:06
- JetBlue raises bag fees for third time in a year as fuel costs biteJetBlue raised baggage fees for the third time in a year as fuel costs continued to climb.CNBC · 3 Nov, 20:07
In this story: JetBlue · Delta · United · Southwest · U.S. Gulf of Mexico
This summary was written by AI from the headlines and standfirsts above, and states as fact only what at least two outlets report. How we use AI · Report a problem · Corrections log
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