JetBlue Raises First-Bag Fees to $70 During Peak Travel Periods

JetBlue Airways has raised checked-bag fees for the third time in less than a year, with peak-period first-bag charges reaching $70 for economy passengers who pay within 24 hours of departure.

Outside peak periods, the first bag costs $50 when purchased more than 24 hours before departure, up from $45. Passengers who wait until the final 24 hours pay $60. During peak periods such as summer and holidays, the fee is $55 when paid earlier, up from $49, and $70 when paid within 24 hours of departure.

JetBlue said the higher fees will help cover rising fuel and operating costs while allowing it to keep base fares competitive. Customers with a co-branded JetBlue credit card and those with elite frequent-flyer status are among the groups exempt from the charges.

Jet fuel prices have roughly doubled this year since the Iran war began in February, putting pressure on airline costs. JetBlue posted a $257 million third-quarter loss as fuel expense climbed 61% to $868 million. More details are available in our coverage of the airline’s third-quarter results.