Delta hikes fees for baggage, pets, phone tickets and more

Delta Air Lines' travelers, including frequent flyers, will be subject to higher fees from today (Tuesday, April 1). The fee hike affects passengers traveling with pets, travelers booking flights over the phone, and oversize bag fees. The changes come as Delta and its competitors haggle with the sinking airline industry trend and attempt to boost revenue amid rising gas prices.

One of the more significant changes applies to frequent flyers, who will now be charged a $25 “handling fee” for any Delta award ticket that is booked through a Delta agent that includes flights on other airlines. In the past, frequent flyers redeeming Delta miles for free tickets on partner airlines did not pay a fee for the transaction.

In addition, Delta is also raising the fees for pets, minors and oversized luggage. Carrying a pet in the cabin will now cost $100, as opposed to $75 and any oversized bags will cost travelers $150 (a $50 hike). If your child is traveling alone be prepared to pay Delta a $100 unaccompanied minor fee. This fee will be instituted for all nonstop and connecting flights.

© Cheapflights Ltd Melanie Nayer