This week the largest US carriers — American Airlines and Delta Air Lines announced after the competitors to raise fees for checked baggage.
The new rates already took effect:
- Delta — for tickets purchased from September 19;
- from American Airlines — 21 Sep.
For the first piece of baggage will now be charged $30, second $40, third — $150. Beginning with the fourth tax will be $200.
According to the official statement of American Airlines, this company went for the first time since 2010, «following similar changes at other airlines.»
Updated fees all airlines are almost identical, but some differences are still there, especially in relation to the pricing of overweight and oversized bags.
Why do airlines increase baggage fees
Some argue that the increase in fees for checked baggage due to the increasing price of fuel and labor. For others, the price increase will allow us to invest more in improving the quality of service. JetBlue CEO Robin Hayes said that this step will help them to maintain the lowest possible rates for air travel.
But Southwest Airlines is in no hurry to follow the example of competitors. Moreover, the company’s CEO Gary Callie said that changes are planned in principle: passengers of Southwest Airlines can continue to carry 2 pieces of baggage completely free.
