American Airlines becomes the 5th major US airline to raise bag fees

American Airlines has joined the flock of major U.S. carriers that have increased the cost of checked bags.

The Texas-based airline announced on April 9 that it is hiking costs for checked bags, along with updating its basic economy fare. American Airlines said the changes are the result of "continuing evaluation of pricing in light of the current operating environment."

This makes American Airlines the fifth major airline to raise fees to offset higher jet fuel prices caused by the war in Iran. JetBlue was the first U.S. carrier to announce an increase to bag fees at the end of March to cover "rising operating costs," the airline previously told USA TODAY in a statement.

Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines shortly followed suit.

The new fees apply to tickets booked on or after April 9 for domestic flights — including Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands — Canada, and short-haul international flights. Travelers who prepay for their first and second bags online or via the airline's mobile app will get $5 off.