Checked bags mean big money for airlines | Consumer News | Seattle News, Weather, Sports, Breaking News | KOMO News

Checked bags mean big money for airlines | Consumer News | Seattle News, Weather, Sports, Breaking News | KOMO News:

U.S. airlines collected more than $1.7 billion in baggage fees during the first half of the year, the largest amount ever collected in that six-month period.

Delta Air Lines Inc. once again claimed the title as the airline collecting the most in baggage fees: nearly $430 million from January through June. The slightly larger United Airlines - part of United Continental Holdings Inc. - followed with $351 million in bag fees, according to a report from the Bureau of Transportation statistics released Tuesday.

Airlines started charging for a first checked suitcase in 2008 and the fees have climbed since. Airlines typically charge $25 each way for the first checked bag, $35 for the second bag and then various extra amounts for overweight or oversized bags.
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