Delta raises checked bag fees amid higher oil prices as Iran conflict continues

ATLANTA (ANF/Gray News) - Delta Air Lines is raising its checked bag fees on certain flights starting this week.

The airline announced it is increasing prices for passengers’ first and second checked bags by $10, plus $50 more for a third on domestic and some short international flights.

Starting Wednesday, it will be $45 for the first bag, $55 for the second bag and $200 for the third bag.

There haven’t been any changes to fees for long-haul international routes.

“These updates are part of Delta’s ongoing review of pricing across its business and reflect the impact of evolving global conditions and industry dynamics,” the company said in a statement.

Delta noted that complimentary checked bag benefits remain unchanged for Delta SkyMiles Medallion members, First Class, Delta Premium Select, Delta One customers, active-duty military and those with Delta SkyMiles American Express cards.

The company’s first domestic baggage fee increase in two years comes as the conflict in Iran has spiked oil prices, adding about $400 million to the airline’s fuel costs in the fourth quarter, Delta CEO Ed Bastian said on CNBC.

Under the same pressures, United and JetBlue have also increased their checked bag fees. Checked bags for certain United flights were raised by $10, while JetBlue raised prices by $9 for peak travel periods.