Southwest Airlines raises baggage fees

The move marks a significant shift for the carrier, which had used the free baggage perk as a core part of its brand identity for decades.

Delta Air Lines has also implemented similar fee hikes this week, joining a growing list of U.S. carriers passing higher operating costs on to travelers.

Industry analysts suggest that the price of jet fuel has jumped by nearly 30% since the start of the Iran war, forcing airlines to find new revenue streams.

Passengers are being warned to expect further adjustments to travel costs if energy prices remain volatile.