Another major U.S. airline is increasing its checked bags fees.
Citing the recent surge in jet fuel prices, Alaska Airlines said a new baggage fee schedule will go into effect for tickets booked on or after Friday.
“Due to ongoing volatility in fuel prices and an uncertain global environment, Alaska Airlines is increasing its checked baggage fees for travel on North American Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines flights,” the carrier said in a statement on its website. “Fees are increasing $5 for the first checked bag and $10 for the second checked bag.”
The price for a first checked bag will climb from $40 to $45, while the price for a second bag will rise from $45 to $55. The fee for a third checked bag is set to go up $50, from $150 to $200.
Alaska is also canceling its $5 discount for customers who pay their baggage fees online at least four hours before their flight.
“Atmos Rewards status members and eligible cardholders of an Atmos Rewards Visa or Hawaiian Airlines Mastercard will continue to enjoy their current baggage benefits,” the airline added. “There are no changes to our Huaka‘i or Club 49 programs.”
Airlines around the world are hiking ticket prices and adding fees and surcharges in an attempt to at least partially offset spending on jet fuel. The price of aviation fuel has doubled in most regions since the start of the conflict in Iran, mainly due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and Iranian attacks on oil infrastructure in Arab Gulf countries.
Within the last two weeks, United, Delta, American Airlines, Southwest, and JetBlue have all raised their fees for checked bags, mostly by $10 or less for a first and second checked bag.
