United Airlines Raises Checked Bag Fees by $10 Amid Soaring Fuel Costs

United Airlines has increased its checked bag fees by $10 as of Thursday, amid rising fuel prices. 

According to CNBC, fuel is an airline's biggest expense after labor. 

Why Fees Are Increasing

The new fee is up $10 to $45. However, the $45 fee applies to travelers on more domestic flights and only if the traveler pays ahead of time. If it's within 24 hours of the flight, it's $50. 

“United is raising first and second checked bag fees by $10 for customers traveling in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada and Latin America beginning with tickets purchased Friday, April 3,” United said. 

The last checked bag fee increase took effect in February 2024 and, as mentioned, is intended to cover the surge in jet fuel costs. 

On Thursday, fuel prices in places like Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, and New York averaged $4.88 per gallon, but the entire US is seeing increases due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East between the US and Iran. 

In addition to United, JetBlue increased its checked bag fee by $4, from $5 to $9, depending on when the ticket is booked. 

Other Changes and Ways to Avoid Fees

There are ways around the fees, though: airline credit cards provide customers with a free checked bag, and when you fly first class, that usually includes a free checked bag. 

“United Chase credit card holders, MileagePlus Premier members, active military members, and customers traveling in premium cabins can still check a bag for free, and customers in most markets will still enjoy a $5 discount if they prepay for their bags online 24 hours before their flight,” United said.

This also comes at a time when American Airlines is considering adding seatback screens again, but we'll see whether they also raise their checked-bag fees. 

Airlines aren't the only companies increasing costs. Amazon also announced it'll be adding a 3.5% “fuel and logistics-related surcharge” fee for third-party sellers using its fulfillment centers, CNBC reported.