US airlines earned whopping $4.6 billion in baggage fees last year

US airlines made a whopping $4.57 billion in baggage fees alone in 2017, with American Airlines raking in the most.

According to new data released this week from the US Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS), the 13 largest US based airlines made a record $4.6 biillion in baggage fees alone in 2017.

The figures show a 6% increase from 2016.

American Airlines pocketed the most, charging customers over $1.1 billion.

With increased competition from low-cost-carriers, major airlines have eliminated a free check-in bag for those who buy basic economy fares.

US-based airlines recorded over $15.5 billion in after-tax profits for the full year — an increase of ~11% over 2016 profits.

Some airlines like JetBlue collected 25% more in baggage fees in 2017 compared to previous year.

US airlines baggage fees in 2017

1. American Airlines: $1,172,728
2. Delta Air Lines: $907,626
3. United Airlines: $794,489
4. Spirit: $492,645
5. Frontier: $364,142
6. JetBlue: $289,839 7
7. Allegiant: $192,583
8. Alaska Airlines: $147,243
9. Hawaiian Airlines: $81,156
10. Virgin America: $62,680
11. Southwest Airlines: $46,111
12. Sun Country: $20,056 1
13. Island Air Hawaii: $4,994

The last major airline to still offer complimentary checked bags is Southwest Airlines. Each passenger can check two free bags — including golf bags and skis — up to 50 pounds and total dimensions of 62 inches.