JetBlue hikes first checked bag fee to $50

JetBlue now charges economy passengers at least $50 each way for their first checked bag on domestic and regional routes. This change applies to tickets bought on or after Nov. 3, raising the cost from the previous $39 base rate.

The fee structure varies based on when travelers purchase their tickets and when they fly. During peak periods like Thanksgiving and winter holidays, the price is $55 if paid at least 24 hours before departure. Those who wait until the final 24 hours will pay $60 during off-peak times and $70 during peak travel windows.

JetBlue raised these fees for the first time in March, a move that triggered similar increases at Delta, United, American, and Southwest. At the start of the year, the first checked bag cost $35 during off-peak periods. The subsequent rise in prices coincided with the Iran war, which began in late February following U.S.-Israeli strikes. Those strikes sent jet fuel prices swinging upward.

The conflict has not been resolved, keeping traffic restricted through the Strait of Hormuz. This critical shipping route for global oil supplies has seen disruption that keeps jet fuel prices elevated. JetBlue stated in an emailed statement that it is adjusting fees to offset rising fuel and operating costs. The airline added that this strategy helps keep base fares competitive while allowing customers to pay for checked bags only if needed.

The second checked bag fee has also gone up. It now starts at $70 each way during off-peak periods and $75 during peak travel. Passengers checking bags at the airport can pay as much as $85 for a second item.

During a third-quarter earnings call last week, JetBlue executives said demand remains resilient despite higher fares. The company reported that its average fuel price hit $3.91 per gallon in the summer, a 57% jump from a year earlier. JetBlue expects that figure to climb to $4.64 during the final three months of the year, an 85% increase compared to the same period last year.

Some travelers can still check bags for free, including eligible co-branded credit card holders and members of JetBlue’s loyalty program.