Delta, Southwest Raise Checked Bag Fees by $10 Amid Rising Fuel Costs

Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines have increased checked baggage fees by $10, joining other major U.S. carriers as the industry faces a sharp rise in fuel costs.

The changes bring the fee for a first checked bag to $45 and a second bag to $55 on both airlines.

Southwest said the updated fees will apply to tickets booked or modified on or after April 9, 2026. The airline had already ended its long-standing policy of allowing two free checked bags less than a year ago.

Delta said its revised pricing takes effect for bookings starting this week and applies to domestic and short-haul international flights, but not to long-haul routes.

The airline said the adjustment reflects ongoing changes in global conditions and cost pressures across the industry.

Last week, United Airlines and JetBlue Airways also raised checked bag fees, with other carriers expected to follow similar pricing trends.

Airlines are facing a sharp increase in jet fuel prices, which remain one of their largest operating costs after labor. Fuel prices in major U.S. cities have risen significantly this year, driven by disruptions in global supply.

Industry data shows jet fuel prices have climbed sharply since late February, when tensions in the Middle East escalated and supply routes were affected.

Delta is expected to report its first-quarter earnings this week, with analysts likely to focus on how airlines are managing rising fuel expenses and whether higher ticket and baggage fees can offset the increased costs.