JetBlue, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines have all raised checked baggage fees in recent days, with JetBlue increasing fees by up to $9 during peak travel periods and Delta implementing hikes effective Wednesday. United Airlines increased fees by $10 for first and second checked bags in most markets, effective April 3, 2026. S.
S. 50 before the conflict began. Supply disruptions are a key driver, as the Strait of Hormuz is nearly completely closed, disrupting global oil supplies, after Iran closed the strait again on Wednesday in response to Israeli attacks on Hezbollah in Lebanon.
This closure has heightened vulnerabilities for European and UK jet fuel supplies, with the last known shipment of jet fuel to the UK from the Middle East due to arrive within 48 hours. The UK currently sources at least half its jet fuel from the Middle East, and about 40% of Europe's jet fuel comes via the Strait of Hormuz, raising concerns about potential shortages. Airlines are responding to mounting cost pressures, with United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby saying higher jet fuel costs had added roughly $400 million to operating costs.
JetBlue explained that charging more for optional services helps keep base fares competitive. Southwest Airlines made its fee increase as part of an ongoing analysis of the business and against the evolving global backdrop. Potential broader impacts are emerging, as industry experts fear supply issues could have a major impact on airlines from the end of next month if the Iran war continues.
Some cruise lines, including StarCruises and Dream Cruises, have implemented new fuel surcharges. The British Government has insisted people should book their summer holidays as normal and not worry about supply issues. Recent developments include oil prices plunging toward $95 per barrel after President Donald Trump announced a two-week ceasefire with Iran.
However, uncertainties persist over whether the ceasefire will hold, given the recent closure of the Strait of Hormuz, and how long the jet fuel supply issues will last and their full impact on airline operations beyond next month. It is also unknown whether other airlines beyond those mentioned will implement similar fee increases or fuel surcharges, or the exact impact of the jet fuel shortage on UK aviation and whether it will lead to flight cancellations or further price hikes.