JetBlue is increasing fees for checked bags as airline operating costs – most notably for jet fuel – continue to climb.
According to the carrier’s website, the price to check one piece of luggage for flights within the U.S., Canada, Latin America, and the Caribbean is now $39 for off-peak times, up from $35. During peak periods, the cost for one piece of luggage is now $49, up from $40.
If customers book within 24 hours of their planned departure, prices are $10 higher – $49 for off-peak, and $59 for peak.
Members of JetBlue’s loyalty program and JetBlue cardholders have their first bag checked for free.
JetBlue acknowledged the increases in a statement to AirlineGeeks, though it did not detail the exact dollar amounts.
“As we experience rising operating costs, we regularly evaluate how to manage those costs while keeping base fares competitive and continuing to invest in the experience our customers value,” the carrier said. “Adjusting fees for optional services used by select customers, such as checked baggage, allows us to continue offering more competitive fares while delivering the onboard experience our customers love, including complimentary snacks and drinks, unlimited, high-speed Wi-Fi, and seatback entertainment screens.”
“While we recognize that fee increases are never ideal, we take careful consideration to ensure these changes are implemented only when necessary,” JetBlue added.
Jet fuel prices have spiked around the world since the start of the conflict in Iran late last month. In North America, high demand has at least partially offset those expenses, but fares are climbing, and some industry experts expect that trend to continue through the summer at least.
