Delta Joins United, JetBlue in Raising Checked-Bag Fees

ATLANTA (AP) - Delta Air Lines is joining two rivals in raising fees to check a bag on a flight within the United States. On Wednesday Delta posted new fees of $30 for checking a first bag and $40 for a second bag - increasing the previous fees by $5 each.

The changes match increases recently imposed by United Airlines and JetBlue Airways. By midday, American Airlines had not increased bag fees. Southwest Airlines still lets passengers check up to two bags free.

Airlines have been pulling in more revenue from extra charges for several years. Last year, U.S. carriers raised $7.4 billion from fees on checked bags and ticket changes, led by American, Delta and United.

United and JetBlue upped the fees at the beginning of this month, just as many U.S. travelers were embarking on their Labor Day weekend trips. United Airlines increased its checked-baggage fees to and from North America, the Caribbean and Central America. What the carrier charges for a second bag varies by destination: For flights within the United States, including Puerto Rico, and to the Virgin Islands, the Caribbean and Central America, the fee has gone up to $40, again a $5 increase. Those flying to Canada with a second bag will have to pony up $50. The second-bag fee to Mexico remains $55.

Source:  meetings-conventions.com