Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines announced Tuesday they are increasing checked baggage fees as rising jet fuel prices continue to pressure the airline industry.
The move comes as tensions in the Middle East disrupt global oil supply, driving operating costs sharply higher.
Both airlines said fees for first and second checked bags will go up by $10. This brings the cost to $45 for the first bag and $55 for the second on new bookings, Reuters reported.
The changes reflect how airlines are trying to keep up with fast-growing expenses, especially fuel, which is one of their biggest costs.
Jet fuel prices have jumped significantly in recent weeks. According to the International Air Transport Association, fuel that once averaged between $85 and $90 per barrel earlier this year has surged to around $209 per barrel worldwide.
The increase is tied to ongoing tensions affecting the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments. Disruptions in this area have tightened supply and pushed prices up.
Delta Air Lines will raise fees for checked bags on domestic and select short-haul international routes, a move that comes as airlines look to offset soaring jet fuel costs stemming from the Iran war https://t.co/g11rOsiKEN
— The Wall Street Journal (@WSJ) April 7, 2026
Delta Airlines Expands Fee Hikes to Domestic
Delta said the higher baggage fees will apply to domestic and some short international flights for tickets booked starting Wednesday.
The airline also raised the fee for a third checked bag by $50, bringing it to $200.
However, it confirmed there will be no changes to fees on long-haul international routes. Benefits tied to frequent-flyer programs, premium tickets, and co-branded credit cards will remain the same.
"These updates are part of Delta's ongoing review of pricing across its business and reflect the impact of evolving global conditions and industry dynamics," the company said.
According to CNBC, Southwest said its new fees will apply to reservations booked or changed on or after April 9.
"As part of an ongoing analysis of the business and against the evolving global backdrop, Southwest Airlines is increasing its fees," the airline said in a statement.
The change follows its earlier decision to end its long-standing policy of allowing all passengers to check two bags for free.
Other major carriers, including United Airlines and JetBlue Airways, have also recently raised baggage fees, signaling a wider trend across the industry.
While Delta has some protection through its refinery in Pennsylvania, which supplies a large portion of its fuel, it is still affected by global oil price swings.
Analysts say strong travel demand may help airlines handle some of the cost increases, but it remains unclear if it will fully cover the surge in fuel prices.
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