JetBlue raises checked bag fees again amid rising fuel costs

JetBlue has raised its checked bag fees for the second time this year, becoming the first U.S. airline to do so in 2026, Skift reported. Economy travelers now pay $50 for a first checked bag purchased more than 24 hours before departure, up from $45 earlier this year.

During peak travel periods, the fee has increased to $55, while bags checked less than 24 hours before departure now cost between $60 and $70, depending on timing, according to JetBlue's website.

A JetBlue spokesperson linked the fee increases to rising fuel and operating costs, noting that jet fuel prices averaged $4.41 per gallon recently. This rise in ancillary fees comes amid a 30% average increase in domestic airfares this year.

Executives at JetBlue and Delta have indicated limited customer resistance to these price increases and see potential for further fare hikes. The Points Guy highlighted questions about whether other airlines will follow JetBlue's lead in raising bag fees again.