United Airlines Increases Baggage Fees and Introduces Tiered Premium Fares

United Airlines has announced an increase in checked baggage fees, effective Friday, attributing the change to escalating jet fuel costs influenced by the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

The new fees apply to flights within the United States, Mexico, Canada, and Latin America. Passengers will now pay $45 for the first checked bag and $55 for the second. This marks the first baggage fee increase in two years.

Certain travelers, including co-branded credit card holders, specific loyalty-tier members, active military personnel, and those in premium cabins, will continue to receive a free first checked bag. Additionally, customers checking bags less than 24 hours before departure will incur an extra $5 fee.

In response to rising operational costs, United is also introducing a tiered fare structure for its premium cabins on long-haul international routes, transcontinental U.S. flights, and select Hawaii services. The new structure comprises three fare types:

• Base Fare: Offers the lowest upfront price but excludes certain amenities such as advance seat selection and refunds.

• Standard Fare: Includes common perks like seat selection, extra checked bags, and the ability to make itinerary changes.

• Flexible Fare: Provides all features of the Standard Fare and is fully refundable, offering maximum flexibility for travelers.

United plans to roll out this new fare structure in select markets this month, with expansion to additional routes later this year.