Delta Charges $40 for Checking a Third Bag

Checking a third bag will cost you $40 under a policy that Delta Air Lines began Aug. 15, the day after announcing it.

Although the short notice caused grumbling among consumer advocates, the fee is less than several other airlines charge. Under the policies, you can check two bags for free and carry on one bag on domestic flights. Weight and size limits for international flights vary; check with the airline.

Since April, Northwest has charged $80 for a third checked bag for passengers; first-class passengers can check three bags for free. Continental implemented an $80 fee in May. United charges $75 and Alaska Airlines, $50.

Delta said it was imposing the fee to “better manage the dramatic rise in checked baggage in our system.” Since Sept. 11, customers have been checking about 20% more luggage, it said.