United Airlines on Friday (Feb 23) became the third major US airline to hike checked baggage fees for customers travelling in North America after American Airlines and JetBlue Airways announced similar increases.
United passengers flying economy in the US after Feb 24 will pay US$40 (S$53.70) for a first checked bag, or US$35 paid in advance. A second checked bag will cost US$50 at the airport and US$45 in advance.
Maintenance and labour contract costs have risen for carriers while pricing power has weakened in the US domestic market.
US airlines collected nearly US$6.8 billion in baggage fees in 2022 — and US$5.5 billion in the first nine months of 2023.
Four years ago, United raised prices for checked bags at airports by US$5 to US$35, or US$30 if travellers pay in advance online.
This week, American Airlines raised fees for a first checked bag to US$35 if booked in advance online, or US$40 at the airport.
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