United Airlines Increases Baggage Fees Due to Rising Fuel Prices
United Airlines has announced a $10 increase in baggage fees for most travelers in response to the ongoing fuel crisis caused by the war in Iran. This comes after the airline’s CEO warned that some airlines may not survive the crisis without an end in sight.
The new fees will go into effect on Friday and apply to customers traveling within the United States, Mexico, Canada, and Latin America. Customers will now pay $45 for their first checked bag and $55 for their second bag. For tickets purchased after April 3, 2026, fees will increase by $10 for the first and second checked bags and by $50 for the third checked bag in most markets.
United has stated that this is the first time in two years that they have raised baggage fees. However, some customers will still receive a free first checked bag, including co-branded credit card holders, certain loyalty-tier members, active military personnel, and travelers in premium cabins. Customers who check bags less than 24 hours before departure will now pay an additional $5.
JetBlue, another major airline, also recently raised their baggage fees in response to the rising fuel prices. They stated that charging more for optional services used by select customers helps keep base fares competitive. Both United and JetBlue will continue to offer a free first checked bag to some customers.
The war in the Middle East has severely disrupted global oil supplies, leading to fluctuating crude prices. This has greatly impacted airlines’ operating costs as jet fuel is refined from crude oil. The average price for a gallon of jet fuel in major hubs has increased from $2. 50 to $4. 88 since the conflict began on February 28.
United CEO Scott Kirby reported that the higher fuel costs have already added $400 million to operating costs. This has made fuel the second biggest expense for airlines after labor. To offset these costs, analysts expect U. S. airlines to increase add-on fees or ticket prices, while some non-U. S. carriers have already implemented fuel surcharges.
In addition to the baggage fee increase, President Donald Trump has proposed privatizing security screening at airports in an effort to cut funding for the federal agency and save money. This would require small airports to enroll in a program where TSA pays for private screeners. Budget documents state that airports currently using this program have seen cost savings compared to federal screening operations.
The ongoing fuel crisis has also caused major disruptions at U. S. airports as TSA security officers went unpaid for several weeks due to a budget dispute. As the fuel situation continues to unfold, airlines and travelers alike are facing challenges and changes in the industry.