NEW YORK- If you’re considering checking a bag with JetBlue Airways (B6), be prepared to reach deeper into your wallet than ever before. The New York-based airline recently implemented unprecedented increases to its checked bag fees.
Effective February 1, JetBlue now imposes a fee of $35 for the first standard-size checked bag and $50 for the second standard-size checked bag when purchased at least 24 hours before departure.
JetBlue Increases Bag Fees
However, if you opt to check a bag during the check-in process (i.e., within 24 hours of departure), these fees escalate to $45 for the first checked bag and $60 for the second.
Notably, these modifications were not explicitly communicated by JetBlue but were quietly incorporated into the airline’s website in recent weeks.
It’s important to mention that these fees do not apply to transatlantic flights, as there is a separate fee structure for checked bags on those routes.
JetBlue’s Mosaic elite customers and Mint business class travelers will continue to benefit from two complimentary checked bags. Additionally, JetBlue Plus Cardholders will retain the privilege of receiving their first checked bag for free.
American Airlines Raises Baggage Fees
JetBlue’s recent adjustment to bag fees is part of a broader trend in the industry where ancillary charges are on the rise.
Earlier this year, the airline introduced a preferred seating fee, allowing passengers to select seats closer to the front of the plane for an additional cost. Moreover, in recent months, JetBlue has increased the pricing for Even More Space extra-legroom seats across many of its routes.
The spotlight on JetBlue’s new checked bag fees has intensified following American Airlines (AA) announcement on Tuesday that it would also be raising these fees. American’s updated fee structure for domestic flights includes $35 for the first checked bag (when purchased online) and $45 for the second checked bag.
Airline | First bag | Second bag |
---|---|---|
Alaska Airlines | $35 | $45 |
American Airlines | $35 / $40 | $45 |
Delta Air Lines | $30 | $40 |
Frontier Airlines | Varies | Varies |
JetBlue | $35 / $45 | $50 / $60 |
Southwest Airlines | Free | Free |
Spirit Airlines | Varies | Varies |
United Airlines | $30 / $35 | $40 / $45 |
Joining the trend early, Alaska Airlines (AS) increased its first checked bag fee from $30 to $35 a few weeks ago. The industry is now watching to see if other U.S. airlines will follow suit, as major carriers often engage in a “follow the leader” dynamic, especially when there’s potential for increased revenue.
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