JetBlue Raises Checked Bag Fees as Fuel Prices Soar

GLOBAL – JetBlue is raising checked bag fees as the war with Iran drives up fuel costs for airlines.

Passengers will now pay $39 for a first checked bag during off-peak travel, up $4, while peak-period fees will rise to $49.

The airline said Tuesday that travelers who wait until the day of their flight to pay will be charged an additional $10.

JetBlue says the increase is part of efforts to offset rising operating costs while keeping base fares competitive.

So far, no other major U.S. airlines have announced similar fee hikes, but travel industry watchers note competitors often follow when one carrier moves first.