United Airlines Hikes Checked Bag Fees by $10

Latest airline to raise costs amid soaring jet fuel prices from Iran conflict

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:58am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A close-up, high-contrast photograph of a single, shiny metal luggage tag with the United Airlines logo, resting on a plain grey background and dramatically lit from the side, conveying a sense of corporate austerity and the financial pressures facing the airline industry.United's latest checked bag fee hike reflects the airline industry's struggle with soaring jet fuel costs.Chicago Today

United Airlines has announced an increase in checked bag fees, raising the price by $10 for the first and second checked bags and $50 for the third checked bag. This is the airline's first increase in checked bag fees in over two years, as jet fuel prices have soared due to the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran.

Why it matters

The rise in jet fuel prices, which typically account for about a quarter of airline operating costs, is forcing carriers to pass on some of those higher expenses to consumers through increased fees for services like checked bags. This is an industry-wide trend, as airlines look to offset the financial impact of the Iran conflict on their operations.

The details

United's new checked bag fee structure will go into effect for tickets purchased on or after Friday, April 3. The airline last raised checked bag fees in February 2024. Earlier this week, JetBlue also increased its charge for a second checked bag. The average price of jet fuel reached $4.64 per gallon on Tuesday, up from $2.50 before the conflict with Iran began, according to Argus Media.

  • United's new checked bag fees will go into effect for tickets purchased on or after Friday, April 3, 2026.
  • United last raised checked bag fees in February 2024.

The players

United Airlines

A major U.S. airline that has announced an increase in checked bag fees due to rising jet fuel prices.

JetBlue

Another U.S. airline that has recently increased its charge for a second checked bag.

Argus Media

An energy market intelligence company that tracks average jet fuel prices across major U.S. hubs.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The increase in checked bag fees by United and other airlines is a direct response to the rising jet fuel prices caused by the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran. Consumers can expect to see more airlines follow suit in an effort to offset these higher operational costs.