United and JetBlue Raise Checked Bag Fees Amid Fuel Price Surge

Airlines cite rising jet fuel costs as reason for the fee hikes on first and second checked bags.

Apr. 5, 2026 at 2:20pm

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United Airlines and JetBlue have both announced increases to their checked baggage fees, citing the rising cost of jet fuel as the primary driver. United is raising fees by $10 per bag, while JetBlue has also increased its baggage charges. The airlines say the fee hikes are necessary to offset the significant jump in fuel prices, which have more than doubled since the start of the year.

Why it matters

Airline ticket prices are expected to rise as well, as carriers look to pass along the higher fuel costs to consumers. Baggage fees have become an increasingly important revenue stream for airlines in recent years, and this latest round of increases will impact travelers flying within the U.S., Mexico, Canada, and Latin America.

The details

United's new policy raises the fee for a first checked bag from $35 to $45 if prepaid, and from $40 to $50 if paid within 24 hours of the flight. The second checked bag fee goes from $45 to $55 if prepaid, and $50 to $60 if paid later. JetBlue has also increased its baggage fees, though the exact new pricing was not provided. United says this is the first time it has raised bag fees in two years. The fee hikes do not apply to United Chase credit card holders, MileagePlus Premier members, active military, and those traveling in premium cabins, who can still check bags for free.

  • The new United bag fees took effect for tickets purchased on or after April 3, 2026.
  • JetBlue also increased its baggage fees earlier this week.

The players

United Airlines

A major U.S. airline headquartered in Chicago, Illinois.

JetBlue

A low-cost American airline based in New York.

Scott Kirby

The CEO of United Airlines.

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What they’re saying

“United Chase credit card holders, MileagePlus Premier members, active military members and customers traveling in premium cabins can still check a bag for free.”

— United Airlines

“Current fuel prices could cost United an additional $11 billion a year if they don't fall.”

— Scott Kirby, CEO, United Airlines

What’s next

Travelers should check with their airline and any loyalty program memberships to understand the latest baggage fee policies before booking flights.

The takeaway

The latest round of baggage fee increases by major U.S. airlines like United and JetBlue highlights the significant financial pressure airlines are facing due to skyrocketing jet fuel prices. Consumers can expect to see these higher costs passed along through higher airfares as well.