JetBlue Raises Bag Fees Again as Fuel Costs Squeeze Airlines

Welcome to the era of the $70 bag fee.

JetBlue Airways has raised the price of checking a bag for many customers for the third time in less than a year, as high fuel costs continue to eat into the industry's profits.

Travelers booked in economy will now pay $50 for a first checked bag, up from $45, if they purchase it more than 24 hours before departure during a non-peak travel period. Paying within 24 hours of departure costs $60. During peak periods such as holidays or summer, the fee is $55, up from $49, and $70 within 24 hours of departure.

There are exceptions, including for customers who hold a co-branded JetBlue credit card or elite frequent flyer status.

"We're adjusting checked bag fees to help offset rising fuel and operating costs," JetBlue said in a statement. "This helps us keep our base fares competitive while giving customers the choice to pay for a checked bag only if they need one."

Jet fuel, airlines' biggest cost after labor, has roughly doubled this year, costing carriers billions and driving up ticket prices. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, jet fuel was going for $4.44 a gallon on Tuesday for the U.S. Gulf Coast.

Other airlines often follow when one carrier raises fees. Major U.S. airlines did so earlier this year after JetBlue raised its bag fees.

The changes were reported earlier by the Thrifty Traveler blog.