As Jet Fuel Costs Surge, Delta Jacks Checked-Bag Fees

Flying with checked luggage on Delta is about to get pricier. The airline is raising bag fees starting Wednesday, citing "evolving global conditions and industry dynamics" as jet fuel costs spike amid the Iran conflict. On most domestic and some short-haul international routes, the first checked bag will now cost $45 (up from $35), the second $55, and a third will jump to $200—an increase of $50, reports CBS News. Delta estimates its second-quarter fuel bill will run an extra $2 billion, notes the New York Times, though it still expects to make a $1 billion profit.

Elite SkyMiles members, first-class passengers, and other qualifying customers will still check bags at no charge, and long-haul international bag fees will stay the same. Southwest is making similar moves this week, bumping up its first and second bag fees by $10 each, while United and JetBlue have already raised their own. Analysts warn airlines could face tens of billions in extra fuel costs if disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz persist; Deutsche Bank estimates fares might need to rise roughly 17% to fully cover the surge. Jet fuel prices are up 132% from last year's average, according to the International Air Transport Association.