Alaska Airlines Changes Checked Bag Fees for 2025

Alaska Airlines has implemented a new checked baggage fee policy that took effect on January 2, 2025. However, elite status members and credit card holders can still enjoy complimentary checked bags.

Breakdown of Alaska Airlines’ New Checked Bag Fees

The updated baggage fees for economy class passengers without elite status or credit card perks are as follows:

✈️ First checked bag: $35 (previously $30)
✈️ Second checked bag: $45 (previously $40)
✈️ Additional bags: $150 per bag (unchanged)

These increases reflect a $5 rise per checked bag, aligning Alaska Airlines with other major U.S. carriers adjusting their pricing structures.

Who is Exempt from the Baggage Fee Increase?

Not all travelers will be affected by these changes. Elite status members, first-class passengers, and select credit card holders can still enjoy waived baggage fees:

✔ First-Class Passengers: Two included checked bags
✔ Alaska Airlines Visa & Visa Business Cardholders: First checked bag included
✔ MVP Gold 100K & MVP Gold 75K Members: Up to three checked bags included

Passengers traveling in premium classes or with elite frequent flyer status will continue to enjoy checked bags included, preserving some benefits for Alaska Airlines’ most loyal customers.

Why is Alaska Airlines Increasing Baggage Fees?

Alaska Airlines cited rising operational costs as the key factor behind the price hike. This includes:

📈 Higher fuel prices impacting overall airline expenses
💼 Increased labor costs due to wage adjustments in the aviation industry
🛫 Competitive pressures to maintain service quality while adapting to inflation

Airline executives emphasized that despite the fee increase, Alaska Airlines remains committed to providing top-tier service and competitive pricing in the industry.

Will Other Airlines Follow?

Industry analysts predict that Alaska Airlines’ decision could set a trend for other carriers. Several major airlines, including Delta, American, and United, have adjusted fees in recent years, and Southwest Airlines remains one of the few to still offer checked bags included.

While no official announcements have been made, experts believe that other airlines may introduce similar baggage fee adjustments in 2025.

FAQs About Alaska Airlines’ New Baggage Fees

Q: When did the new checked bag policy take effect?

A: The updated baggage fees went into effect on January 2, 2025.

Q: Do first-class passengers and elite travelers still get checked bags included?

A: Yes! First-class travelers, MVP Gold 100K, MVP Gold 75K, and select credit card holders still receive complimentary checked bags.

Q: Are other airlines expected to increase their baggage fees?

A: While no official announcements have been made, industry experts speculate that other airlines may follow suit to offset rising operational costs.

Q: How can I avoid paying checked bag fees with Alaska Airlines?

A: You can qualify for checked bags included by:
✔ Booking a First-Class ticket
✔ Holding Alaska Airlines MVP Gold 100K or MVP Gold 75K status
✔ Using an Alaska Airlines Visa or Visa Business Credit Card

Alaska Airlines’ checked bag fee increase follows a trend of rising travel costs, but loyal customers can still take advantage of elite status perks and credit card benefits. If you’re planning to travel with Alaska Airlines in 2025, consider booking with a qualifying card or status to save on baggage fees.

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