JetBlue Raises First Checked-Bag Fee to as Much as $70

JetBlue has increased its checked-bag fees again, with some travelers now facing a charge of $70 for their first bag during peak travel periods when they pay within 24 hours of departure.

For covered economy fares on flights within the United States, Latin America, the Caribbean and Canada, a first checked bag costs $50 during off-peak periods when added more than 24 hours before departure. The advance price rises to $55 during peak periods. Customers who pay within 24 hours face charges of $60 off-peak or $70 at peak, according to CNBC and the airline's published fee information.

The advance first-bag prices were previously $45 off-peak and $49 during peak periods, CNBC reported. The airline said it was adjusting the charges to help offset higher fuel and operating costs while keeping base fares competitive.

The charge does not apply to every passenger. Certain fares include checked bags, and qualifying Mosaic members and JetBlue credit-card holders receive baggage benefits, subject to the airline's conditions. Transatlantic routes have separate fee schedules.

JetBlue's fee page tells customers with bookings made before November 3 to check Manage Trips for the charges that apply to their reservation. Travelers should confirm their own fare and route before paying rather than assume that the headline price applies to every ticket.

Peak pricing covers high-demand travel periods, including Thanksgiving and winter holidays, as well as parts of spring and summer. JetBlue lists the applicable dates, fare exceptions and baggage rules on its official fees page.