American Airlines, Alaska Air Raise Checked Baggage Fees as Fuel Costs Surge

On April 9, American Airlines and Alaska Air announced increases to checked bag fees. The carriers said the move responds to rising jet fuel costs tied to Middle East tensions.

New fee details

American Airlines will add $10 to both the first and second checked bag on domestic and short-haul international flights. The change takes effect immediately on the announcement day.

Alaska Air will raise the first checked bag by $5 and the second by $10 on North American routes. The increases also apply to flights operated by its Hawaiian Airlines unit.

Third bag and basic economy changes

Both carriers increased the price of a third checked bag by $50, bringing that fee to $200. American already used similar pricing for third bags on some routes, including Canada.

American will add a $5 surcharge on checked bags for basic economy tickets starting May 18. Basic economy customers will also pay to select seats and lose eligibility for complimentary system-wide upgrades from that date.

Fuel price drivers

The airlines cited a sharp jump in jet fuel costs as the reason for the hikes. The International Air Transport Association reported global jet fuel near $209 per barrel, up from about $85 to $90 in February.

Disruptions to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz have reduced oil flow. That waterway handles roughly one fifth of global oil shipments.

Customer protections and loyalty programs

Alaska said its loyalty programs Huakaʻi and Club 49 will keep existing intra-state checked-bag benefits in Hawaii and Alaska. Travelers flying premium cabins will continue to receive free baggage on domestic and international itineraries.

Filmogaz.com will monitor further fare and fee moves as carriers respond to the fuel costs surge. Passengers should review airline notices before booking.