JetBlue has raised its checked-bag fees for the second time this year, with the new charges applying to flights booked from November 3. The airline cited rising fuel and operating costs and said the fees help it keep base fares competitive while allowing customers to pay for checked baggage only when needed.
For off-peak travel, the first checked bag now costs $50, or $60 if passengers do not pay in advance. That compares with the previous prices of $39 and $49. On peak travel days, the first bag costs $55 when prepaid or $70 without prepayment, up from $49 and $59.
The second checked bag also costs more. Off-peak fees are $70 or $75, depending on prepayment, compared with $59 or $69 previously. Peak-day prices are $75 or $85, up from $69 or $79. JetBlue uses dynamic baggage pricing, so charges vary with travel dates.
The new fees apply to bookings made on or after November 3. Travelers who bought tickets before then, including for holiday trips, will pay the previous rates. JetBlue’s free-bag benefits remain in place for eligible co-branded credit card holders, Mosaic members and passengers flying in Mint. The first checked bag is also still included for customers booking the airline’s BlueFirst seats.
The increase could prompt other airlines to raise their own fees. After JetBlue’s earlier increase in late March, United, Delta, American and Southwest followed with baggage-fee hikes within weeks. JetBlue passengers can still bring a full-size carry-on regardless of fare type, including on Blue Basic tickets. Carry-on liquids must comply with the TSA’s 3-1-1 policy.
Sources: The Points Guy.