American Airlines is the latest U.S. carrier to increase checked bag fees in response to rising operating costs amid the ongoing jet fuel shortage.
Starting Thursday, April 9, American will increase the fee by $10. That means checking a bag for a domestic or short-haul international flight will cost $50, up from $40, while a second bag will cost $60, up from $50.
However, customers can secure a $5 discount for checking their bags on American’s website or app, bringing the new prices down to $45 and $55, respectively.
Basic economy customers will be hit harder by American's changes, with their first checked bag costing $55, and a second costing $65, for tickets purchased on or after May 18. The $5 discount for website or mobile app purchases also applies to those fees, bringing them to $50 and $60, respectively, when travelers pay in advance.
It's also worth noting that all American customers in basic economy will have to pay to select a seat starting on May 18 and will not be eligible for complimentary or system-wide upgrades. This is true even if customers have status with the airline.
American joins competitors Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, JetBlue, and Southwest Airlines, each of which has increased its checked bag fees to offset rising oil prices driven by the war in Iran.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
