American Airlines has confirmed that fees for checked bags with the carrier are set to increase, both online and at the airport.
The announcement came on February 20, 2024, as American Airlines also set out new rules on how AAdvantage members can earn miles and loyalty points.
Passengers on domestic flights will see the price for their first online checked bag rise from $30 to $35. At the airport, it will rise from $30 to $40.
The cost for a second checked bag will increase from $40 to $45, at both the airport and online.
Customers on American Airlines flights from the United States (US) to Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America will now pay $35 rather than $30 for their first checked bag price. For checking a second bag, the charge will be $45 rather than $40, whether completed online or at the airport.
All AAdvantage members and customers who purchase premium cabins on domestic and international flights will still receive complimentary checked in bags.
The fee for in-cabin pets has also risen, from $125 to $150.
The new rules, the first such changes for the airline since 2018, were introduced on February 20, 2024, following Presidents Day.
As part of the announcement, the airline also said that from April 17, 2024, it will introduce its lowest fee for checked items that are only a “few pounds heavier or a few inches larger than a standard bag”.
In a move to entice customers to book directly with the American Airlines, starting with tickets issued on May 1, 2024, AAdvantage members will only earn miles and loyalty points when booking directly with the carrier or eligible partners.
In April 2024, American Airlines will announce a list of preferred travel agencies through which members will still be able to receive points from when booking flights.
“We want to make it more convenient for customers to enjoy the value and magic of travel,” Vasu Raja, American’s Chief Commercial Officer, said. “Not only does booking directly with American provide the best possible experience, it’s also where we offer the best fares and it’s most rewarding for our AAdvantage members.”
