Flights

JetBlue has quietly raised baggage fees — again

Now travelers are charged more for checked bags when they fly during "peak" times.

A JetBlue plane took off from Logan International Airport in March. David L. Ryan / Globe staff

April 4, 2024

Many travelers flying JetBlue this summer will pay more for their checked bags.

These U.S. airlines have increased checked bag fees in 2024

The airline, Logan Airport‘s largest carrier, has quietly increased baggage fees for the second time this year, this time for folks who travel during “peak” periods which includes trips taken between June 20 and Sept. 3.

As outlined on the airline’s website, during peak travel times on flights within the U.S., Latin America, Caribbean, and Canada, the first checked bag is now $40, a $5 increase, and the second checked bag is now $60, a $10 increase. The change began on March 22 without an announcement by the airline.

This comes after a Feb. 1 price increase for bags checked within 24 hours of departure, which also wasn’t announced.

JetBlue did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but provided the following comment after the February price hike: “While we don’t like increasing fees, it’s one step we are taking to return our company back to profitability and cover the increased costs of transporting bags.”

In February, customers checking bags within 24 hours of departure began paying $45 for the first checked bag and $60 for the second checked bag, a $10 increase. Therefore, with this latest price hike, travelers who wait to check bags until they get to the airport and also travel during peak times now pay $50 for the first checked bag and $70 for the second checked bag.

Peak travel times include “Presidents’ Week, Thanksgiving and Winter holidays, and peak spring and summer travel season,” according to JetBlue.

The following dates fall within “peak” travel times, according to the airline:

April 11-29
June 20-Sept. 3
Nov. 21-Dec. 2
Dec. 19-Jan. 6, 2025
Feb. 13-24, 2025
April 3-28, 2025

The carrier’s Mosaic and Mint customers still receive two free checked bags and those with a JetBlue Plus Card receive their first checked bag for free.

JetBlue launched daily, nonstop service between Boston and Paris on Wednesday. There is also a peak and off-peak baggage fee structure for transatlantic flights, but the first bag is included for all fares except for Blue Basic.

JetBlue is one of several airlines that have increased baggage fees this year.