Airlines Hike Baggage Fees Due to Soaring Fuel Costs

0:00It's April 9th. This is Dallas News Today, your AI-powered local news. America's biggest airlines are jacking up checked baggage fees because jet fuel prices have more than doubled in the seven weeks since the U.S. And Israel kicked off a war with Iran. Fuel is their second highest cost after labor, so they're passing it on to us flyers. JetBlue led the charge last week, with United right behind, and now American, Delta, and even Southwest have followed. Most are bumping first-check bags to $45 if prepaid, $50 at the airport, seconds to $55 or $60 and thirds, up to $200. Travelers are feeling the pinch, but elites, military folks, premium cabin riders, and some credit card holders still get free bags from these. Carriers. Demand for flights stay sky-high despite higher fares, as one airline boss noted the extra $11 billion in yearly fuel costs alone. Southwest, who just started charging for bags less than a year ago, is now at $45 for

1:05the first and 55 for the second, with. Perks for their top loyalists and military. No changes yet on longer international routes for Delta. Pack light if you can, or factor in those extra fees next time you book. Because with fuel still volatile, more hikes could be coming down the line.