Alaska Airlines Raises Baggage Fees Due to Jet Fuel Price Surge
Alaska Airlines announced a rise in checked baggage fees on Thursday. The carrier cited volatile jet fuel prices and an uncertain global situation for the change.
New baggage fees
Fees for North America flights on Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines will increase starting Friday. The first checked bag will cost $45, and the second will cost $55.
- First bag: $45 (up $5).
- Second bag: $55 (up $10).
- Additional bags: $200 (up from $150).
The airline also said it will remove the checked bag prepayment discount. The Seattle-based carrier made the move to help offset higher fuel expenses.
Who remains exempt
Several customer groups will keep their current baggage benefits. Alaska’s Club 49 members will still receive three free bags on in-state travel.
Club 49 members will also keep two free bags when flying to or from Alaska. Hawaiian Airlines’ Huaka‘i benefit members will be exempt on intra-state trips.
- Atmos Rewards members: baggage benefits unchanged.
- Holders of eligible Atmos Rewards Visa and Hawaiian Airlines Mastercard: benefits unchanged.
Wider industry backdrop
Alaska’s change follows similar moves by other major U.S. carriers. Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines recently raised customer fees.
Airlines said the increases respond to jet fuel price swings tied to tensions in the Middle East. Regional operators such as Ryanair and Alaska Seaplanes have also raised fares recently.
Airline comment
Company representatives declined to say whether the fee increases are temporary. “We’re always monitoring conditions and assessing the fees and fares our guests pay to travel with us,” the airline said.
Filmogaz.com will monitor further updates as Alaska and other carriers adjust to the jet fuel price surge. Keywords in this report include Alaska Airlines, baggage fees, jet fuel, and price surge.
