Delta doubles checked bag fee

Delta Air Lines announced this week that it is increasing the fee it charges passengers who check a second bag on domestic flights, as it struggles to counteract the crippling cost of jet fuel.

The fee will double, jumping from $25 to $50, one way. This will apply to all passengers who purchase tickets in coach for flights within the U.S. beginning on July 31 for travel that begins on August 5. The airline has said that less than 20 percent of its customers check a second bag.

A passenger’s first checked bag will still be free, but Delta has not ruled out the potential for initiating a fee for the first bag in the future.

“While we will continue to evaluate this option, Delta believes that customers should be allowed to check one bag and carry on one bag and personal item free of charge,” said Delta spokesman Anthony Black.

Some carriers, such as American and United, have already introduced a fee for the first checked bag.

First-class and BusinessElite passengers, and Medallion customers, traveling on domestic flights will be able to check up to three bags free of charge.

Passengers traveling on international flights will be able to check two bags free of charge.

Delta officials have indicated that this increase is necessary to help the airline cover operating costs that have escalated along with the price of jet fuel – which has risen by approximately 80 percent in the last year.

www.delta.com