Southwest raises baggage fees

Southwest Airlines is the latest carrier to hike fees as the aviation industry grapples with the economic fallout of the Iran war.

Starting Thursday, the first checked bag will cost $45, marking a significant departure from the airline's long-standing marketing strategy.

Delta and other major airlines have implemented similar increases to offset the rising cost of jet fuel, which has spiked despite the recent ceasefire.

Industry analysts predict that these structural changes in pricing may become permanent as airlines seek to protect profit margins against geopolitical volatility.