Delta Increases Bag Fees Amid High Fuel Costs

Atlanta, USA — April 8, 2023

In short: Delta Air Lines raises baggage fees by $10 for first and second bags, and $50 for third bags on domestic and select short-haul international flights.

Delta Increases Baggage Fees

The News

Delta Air Lines announced on April 8, 2023, that it will increase baggage fees as part of its ongoing review of pricing across its operations. Starting April 8, the cost of the first checked bag will rise to $30, the second checked bag will increase to $40, and the fee for a third checked bag will increase to $80 for domestic and select short-haul international flights. These changes apply to tickets purchased on or after the specified date.

Industry Context

This move by Delta aligns with industry-wide adjustments as airlines grapple with rising fuel costs. While Delta is not the first carrier to implement such changes, its specific fee increases—$10 for the first two bags and $50 for the third—stand out as particularly substantial. Competitors such as American Airlines and United Airlines have also raised baggage fees in recent months, reflecting broader industry pressures.

Key Details

• First Checked Bag: $30 (up from $20)
• Second Checked Bag: $40 (up from $30)
• Third Checked Bag: $80 (up from $30)
• Effective Date: April 8, 2023

What Travel Professionals Should Know

For TMCs managing corporate accounts, this fee increase will directly impact the cost of travel packages, particularly for clients who frequently require checked baggage. Airport lounge operators should anticipate higher ancillary revenue from these fees, potentially offsetting some operational costs. The changes underscore the necessity for travel trade professionals to update pricing models and communicate revised costs to clients promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the new baggage fee structure?
The first checked bag costs $30, the second $40, and the third $80 for domestic and select short-haul international flights, effective April 8, 2023.

Which travel trade segments does this affect?
This change primarily impacts TMCs, airlines, and airport lounge operators, as it alters the cost structure for baggage services across various travel segments.

When does this take effect?
The new baggage fees will take effect on April 8, 2023.

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