JetBlue raises first checked bag fee to $50, higher during holidays

JetBlue implemented its second baggage fee increase of the year on November 3, raising the cost of checking the first bag to $50 each way for most economy passengers traveling within the U.S., Canada, Latin America, and the Caribbean, fox10phoenix.com reported.

This new fee represents an $11 increase from earlier in the month and a $15 rise compared to the start of the year, amounting to a 42% increase over one year, according to fox10phoenix.com.

During peak travel periods such as Thanksgiving and the winter holidays, the first checked bag fee rises to $55 if paid more than 24 hours before the flight, and $60 if paid within 24 hours of departure, the airline stated.

The fee for a second checked bag is $70 normally, increasing to $75 outside the 24-hour window and $85 within it during peak times, fox10phoenix.com explained.

JetBlue said the fee adjustments help offset rising fuel and operating costs while keeping base fares competitive and allowing customers to pay only if they need to check bags.

Other major airlines, including Delta, United, American, and Southwest, have also raised baggage fees this year following JetBlue's initial increase in March, as reported by fox10phoenix.com.