Travelers on JetBlue and American Airlines will have to pack light or pay up. The two airlines have increased their fees for checked bags, though the fees for each apply to different situations. Here’s what you need to know about the increases.
The new JetBlue fee applies to travelers within the U.S., Latin America and the Caribbean who wait until the last minute to check bags. If you wait to check a bag until within 24 hours before your flight, you’ll now pay $45 for your first bag and $60 for your second. That’s $10 more than the regular rate, according to the website, so plan on checking your bags in advance to avoid the fee.
“While we don’t like increasing fees, it’s one step we are taking to return our company back to profitability and cover the increased costs of transporting bags,” the airline shared in a statement. “JetBlue continues to believe customers shouldn’t have to choose between a low fare and a great experience. By adjusting fees for added services that only certain customers use, we can keep base fares low and ensure customer favorites like seatback TVs and high-speed Wi-Fi remain free for everyone.”
American Airlines has increased checked bag fees for all passengers. The $5 increase applies to bags checked in advance and at the airport, so for domestic flights you’ll now have to pay $35 for your first checked bag, $40 for your second. If you check your bag at the airport, you’ll pay $40 and $45, respectively. For flights to Canada and other short international flights, the fee is a flat $35. Frequent flyers with elite status, some AAdvantage credit card members and premium cabin passengers will continue to receive complimentary checked bags.