U.S. Airlines Raise Checked Bag Fees, Prompting Questions About Further Hikes
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Three U.S. airlines recently raised checked bag fees, prompting questions if more will follow suit. Airlines cite rising costs, but fees are a significant revenue source.
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U.S. airlines made $6.8 billion from bag fees in 2022. Fees have become more prevalent as airlines "unbundle" fares.
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American Airlines raised fees for the first time since 2018. In 2008, bag fees were introduced amid high fuel prices, and other airlines matched.
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Ways to avoid checked bag fees include packing light, getting a credit card with free bags, earning elite status, consolidating bags, and flying Southwest.
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While bag fees frustrate travelers, airlines argue it allows choice - you only pay for what you want. But the government has concerns about add-on fees.