Delta Air Lines Inc. once again claimed the title as the airline collecting the most in baggage fees: nearly $430 million from January through June.
The slightly larger United Airlines - part of United Continental Holdings Inc. - followed with $351 million in bag fees, according to the Bureau of Transportation statistics.
Airlines started charging for a first checked suitcase in 2008 and the fees have climbed since.
Airlines typically charge $25 each way for the first checked bag, $35 for the second bag and then various extra amounts for overweight or oversized bags.
(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)