Delta Air Lines announced an increase in its checked bag fees, citing rising jet fuel prices linked to ongoing geopolitical tensions, including the conflict involving Iran. The airline’s new fee structure, which takes effect Wednesday, represents the first domestic bag fee hike in two years.
Under the updated pricing, the fee for the first checked bag will rise by $10 to $45, while the second checked bag fee will increase by $10 to $55. Notably, the cost to check a third piece of luggage on domestic and short-haul international flights will jump by $50 to $200. Delta emphasized that these changes are part of an ongoing review of pricing across its business.
Passengers eligible for complimentary checked bags, such as Delta SkyMiles Medallion members and first-class travelers, will not be affected by the fee increases. Additionally, checked bag fees on long-haul international flights remain unchanged.
Jet fuel prices driving airline cost adjustments
Delta’s fee hike follows similar moves by other U.S. airlines, including United and JetBlue, which have also raised bag check fees since the U.S. and Israel launched attacks on Iran on February 28. Industry data from the International Air Transport Association indicates that jet fuel prices reached $209 per barrel for the week ending April 3, marking an increase of 132% compared to the previous year’s average.
Airlines are attempting to offset rising operational costs by increasing fares and adding fuel surcharges. Flight experts advise travelers to consider purchasing refundable tickets amid the likelihood of further price increases.
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