American Airlines' baggage policy varies by fare class, destination, and traveler status. Here's a concise overview based on the latest information:
Carry-On Allowance:
- All passengers, including Basic Economy, can bring 1 carry-on bag (max 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including handles/wheels) and 1 personal item (max 18 x 14 x 8 inches, fits under the seat) for free.
- Exceptions: Diaper bags, medical devices, or strollers don’t count toward the limit.
- Pets in carriers count as a carry-on, with a $150 fee per direction.
- Carry-ons exceeding size limits may incur fees ($30–$200) if checked at the gate.
Checked Baggage:
Domestic Flights (U.S., Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands):
- First bag: $35 online, $40 at airport.
- Second bag: $45.
- Third bag: $150; additional bags: $200 each.
- Maximum 10 bags, each up to 62 inches (length + width + height) and 50 lbs.
International Flights:
- Transatlantic/Transpacific Basic Economy: $75 for first bag, $100 for second, $200 for third+.
- South America (e.g., Colombia, Ecuador, Peru): $45 first bag, $100 second, $200 third+.
- Cuba: Max 2 bags, 70 lbs each; $35 first bag (Basic Economy), $200 second bag (seasonal, Nov 16–Jan 15).
- Australia/New Zealand: 1 free bag for Basic Economy (tickets issued on/after Nov 13, 2024).
Free Checked Bags:
- AAdvantage® elite members: Up to 3 bags free, depending on status.
- AAdvantage® credit cardholders: 1 free bag on domestic flights (e.g., Citi®/AAdvantage® Platinum Select®).
- Active U.S. military: Up to 5 bags free with orders.
- Premium cabins (Business/First): 2–3 bags free, up to 70 lbs each.
- Select destinations (e.g., Brazil, Chile, Transatlantic): 1 free bag, except Basic Economy.
Oversize/Overweight Fees:
- Bags 51–70 lbs: $100; 71–100 lbs: $200 (not accepted to Cuba, Australia, or Transatlantic).
- Bags 62–125 inches: $200; over 125 inches not accepted.
- Slightly oversized/overweight (up to 53 lbs or 65 inches): $30 penalty.
- Cuba: Bags over 70 lbs not accepted.
Special Items:
- Sports equipment (e.g., skis, surfboards): Counts as a checked bag; standard fees apply unless oversized/overweight.
- Musical instruments: Can be carry-on if within size limits or checked with standard fees; fragile items at traveler’s risk.
- Media equipment: $60 fee for eligible companies, max 25 pieces.
- Mobility devices: Free, no count toward allowance.
Restrictions:
- Prohibited items: Lithium batteries (>160 Wh), e-cigarettes in checked bags, marijuana (per TSA rules).
- Boxes to/from Mexico: Max 80 inches.
- Cuba: 1 new power generator per reservation allowed as checked item.
Notes:
- Fees are non-refundable, per person, each way. Contact American for incorrect charges within 45 days.
- Codeshare flights may have different rules; check the operating carrier’s policy.
- 2025 rumors suggest tighter carry-on size rules due to EU standards, but no confirmed changes yet.
