United Airlines Raises Bag Fees, Introduces Tiered Premium Fares

Airline cites rising fuel costs driven by Middle East conflict as reason for changes

Apr. 5, 2026 at 8:25pm

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United Airlines is increasing the cost to check a first bag by $10, with the fee now set at $45 for flights within the U.S., Mexico, Canada, and Latin America. The airline is also introducing a new tiered premium fare structure on select international and transcontinental routes, offering a basic 'no-frills' option alongside standard and fully flexible premium tickets.

Why it matters

The bag fee hike and premium fare changes come as United and other major U.S. airlines face rising fuel costs due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Airlines are under pressure to find new revenue streams to offset these increased operating expenses, which are typically their second largest cost after labor.

The details

Effective this Friday, United's first checked bag fee will increase from $35 to $45, while a second bag will now cost $55. The airline says this is the first time in two years it has raised bag fees. United is also introducing a new tiered premium fare structure on select long-haul international, transcontinental U.S., and Hawaii routes. The lowest 'basic' fare will have a lower upfront price but fewer perks like advance seat selection and refunds, while the top 'flexible' tier will include all premium amenities.

  • The new $45 first checked bag fee takes effect on Friday, April 7, 2026.
  • United plans to introduce the new tiered premium fare structure in select markets this month and expand it to more routes later in 2026.

The players

United Airlines

A major U.S. airline that is raising checked bag fees and introducing a tiered premium fare structure in response to rising fuel costs.

Scott Kirby

The CEO of United Airlines, who stated that the conflict in the Middle East has already added $400 million to the airline's operating costs.

Delta Air Lines

Another major U.S. airline that has reported similar increases in fuel costs due to the Middle East conflict.

American Airlines

Another major U.S. airline that has reported similar increases in fuel costs due to the Middle East conflict.

JetBlue

A U.S. airline that has also recently raised its checked bag fees, citing the need to keep base fares competitive.

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What they’re saying

“This is the first time in two years the airline has raised bag fees.”

— United Airlines

“Charging more for optional services used by select customers helps keep base fares competitive.”

— JetBlue

What’s next

United plans to expand the new tiered premium fare structure to more routes later in 2026 as it continues to adjust pricing in response to rising fuel costs.

The takeaway

The bag fee hike and premium fare changes at United are the latest examples of how major U.S. airlines are passing on increased operating costs, driven by the conflict in the Middle East, to consumers through a combination of higher base fares and add-on fees.