American Airlines Adjusts Baggage Fees in Response to Operational Costs

American Airlines has announced an adjustment to its baggage fees, effective from Tuesday, affecting passengers’ travel expenses. Those flying in basic economy or main cabin classes will notice an increase of $5 to $10 for each checked bag. This adjustment, however, exempts active duty military personnel and passengers who purchase their tickets with an airline-branded credit card.

For domestic flights, including those to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, the fee for the first checked bag will rise to $40, a $10 increase from the previous $30. The cost for a second checked bag is now set at $45, marking a $5 increase. American Airlines offers a $5 discount for passengers who opt to pay for their baggage online via the airline’s official website.

Travelers headed to Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico, or Central America will face a modest fee increase. The cost for the first checked bag is now $35, up from $30, and $45 for the second bag, previously $40.

This fee revision by American Airlines is part of its strategy to manage escalating operational costs. The airline highlights that these fee increases are the first to be implemented in over five years for some services. Notably, American Airlines is not alone in adjusting baggage fees. Earlier this month, JetBlue Airways introduced a $45 fee for checking a bag at the airport. Similarly, Alaska Airlines increased its baggage fees to $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second.

In comparison, other major airlines like Delta Air Lines and United Airlines continue to charge $30 and $40 for the first and second checked bags, respectively, for flights within the region.