Five airlines tighten Basic Economy rules in 2026 (thetravel.com)

American, United, Delta, JetBlue, and Alaska are making their cheapest fares less appealing in 2026. American stopped complimentary seat selections and upgrades for AAdvantage elites on Basic Economy tickets bought on or after May 18, 2026, and ended loyalty earnings for tickets purchased since December 17, 2025. United raised prepaid checked bag fees to $45, airport lobby to $50, and gate to $75 for tickets bought on or after April 3, 2026. Delta's Main Basic tickets exclude SkyMiles and MQD earnings, and cancellations incur a $99 fee on domestic routes. JetBlue renamed Blue Basic to Main Base and charges extra for seat selection, while boarding last. Alaska's Saver fares now offer fewer rewards.