Airfare Rising This Spring

Airfare Rising This Spring

If you're flying in the U.S. this spring, you've probably noticed that airfare prices are climbing. Alongside rising ticket prices, additional costs are also on the rise—especially if you're traveling with one of the two major airlines in the country.

JetBlue Leads the Charge with Increased Baggage Fees

JetBlue was the first to announce an increase in baggage fees, with checked bag charges rising by about $4 to $9, depending on the time of travel. The airline stated that this fee hike is necessary to offset rising operational costs, primarily due to fuel prices, without needing to raise ticket prices further.

This change was announced on Monday, March 30. The first checked bag now costs $39 ($49 during holiday and peak weekends), while a second bag will range from $50 to $59 ($60 to $69 during peak days). If you check your bag less than 24 hours before departure, the fees go up even more, with $49 for the first bag ($59 during peak) and $69 for the second bag ($79 during peak).

United Airlines Follows Suit

Shortly after JetBlue, United Airlines also announced similar fee increases. Starting from tickets purchased on April 3, the checked baggage fee will rise by about $10. This means the first checked bag will cost $45 if paid in advance and $55 for the second bag.

If you check a bag at the last minute, the charges will be $50 for the first bag and $60 for the second. Both airlines emphasized that the primary reason for these increases is the rising fuel costs due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The Pressure from Fuel Costs

In a statement, JetBlue remarked, “As we face rising operational costs, we regularly evaluate how to manage these expenses while keeping fares competitive and continuing to invest in the experience our customers value.” The airline needs to collect more from customers but aims to avoid excessive fare increases.

Sharing a similar sentiment, executives at United expressed their concerns. In March 2026, the CEOs of United, Delta, and American Airlines independently stated that rising fuel costs had added approximately $400 million to their operational expenses since February 28, 2026, when the U.S. began airstrikes against targets in Iran.

Why Are Airlines Raising Fees Now?

Fuel is typically the largest expense for airlines, accounting for 25% to 30% of operational costs. In recent weeks, jet fuel prices in the U.S. have nearly doubled, significantly impacting airline profits. Instead of immediately raising ticket prices—which could drive passengers to competitors—airlines often opt to increase other service fees, such as baggage or seat selection fees, to cover these costs.

These fees are often less noticeable during the initial booking process, allowing airlines to boost revenue per passenger without an immediate drop in demand.

Other Airlines May Follow Suit

Industry analysts also warn that these price increases may not stop with United and JetBlue; many other airlines could follow suit. While no other airlines have announced baggage fee increases yet, some have indicated changes to their routes in response to rising fuel prices.

So far, many airlines have taken various steps to cope with escalating fuel costs. In mid-March, Qantas announced fare increases to address fuel expenses, while CEOs from Lufthansa and Ryanair mentioned that they might need to reduce flight schedules due to price pressures.