Carry-On Baggage Policy
American Airlines allows passengers in Basic Economy, Main Cabin, and higher fare classes to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item onboard free of charge. The carry-on bag must not exceed dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels, and should fit in the overhead compartment. The personal item such as a laptop bag, purse, or small backpack must fit under the seat in front of you and cannot be larger than 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm). There is no specific weight limit for carry-on bags, but they must be manageable by the passenger without assistance.
Carry-On Exceptions for Infants and Special Items
Passengers traveling with infants are allowed an extra diaper bag per child, along with a soft-sided cooler bag for breast milk. These are not counted toward the standard carry-on allowance. In addition, car seats and collapsible strollers can be brought to the gate and checked free of charge. Medical or mobility devices, such as wheelchairs or CPAP machines, are also excluded from carry-on limits.
Musical Instruments and Special Equipment
Small musical instruments are permitted in the cabin as long as they fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. For larger instruments that don’t fit, passengers can purchase an additional seat (a bulkhead window seat next to theirs) provided the instrument does not exceed 165 lbs (75 kg). Larger sports equipment like golf clubs and bicycles may be checked in, but size and weight restrictions apply. A bike, for instance, may incur a charge of $150 if it exceeds the standard baggage dimensions.
Checked Baggage Policy
American Airlines’ checked baggage allowances vary based on the travel class, destination, and frequent flyer status. For domestic flights, passengers in Basic Economy must pay $40 for the first bag (or $35 if paid online) and $45 for the second bag, with each bag limited to 50 lbs (23 kg) and 62 inches (158 cm) in total dimensions. On international routes, such as those to Europe or South America, Premium Economy passengers typically receive one checked bag free, while Basic Economy passengers are charged $75 for the first bag.
Excess Baggage and Oversize/Overweight Fees
If a bag exceeds standard dimensions or weight limits, excess fees apply. For example, bags between 50 lbs and 70 lbs (23–32 kg) incur a fee of $100, while those between 70 lbs and 100 lbs (32–45 kg) cost $200 though most routes don’t allow bags over 100 lbs (45 kg). Oversized bags measuring more than 62 inches but less than 126 inches (158–320 cm) are charged up to $200. Items exceeding 126 inches in total dimensions are not accepted. It’s important to note that passengers could be charged all three types of fees base fee, overweight fee, and oversize fee for a single item if applicable.
Prohibited Items
Certain items are prohibited onboard, including:
- Alcoholic beverages over 140 proof
- Explosives and fireworks
- Defense sprays
- Firearms
- Bleach
Additionally, items like large drones and pepper spray are restricted, especially on international flights, in compliance with TSA regulations.
Free Baggage Allowances by Class and Status
Passengers in First or Business Class are generally allowed up to two or three checked bags for free, depending on the route. These bags may weigh up to 70 lbs (32 kg) each. Additionally, travelers with elite AAdvantage status or those flying with eligible Oneworld partners may receive additional free baggage allowances.
Pet Carrier and Fees
Pets can travel in the cabin on certain flights, provided they are kept in an airline-approved carrier that fits under the seat. The carrier counts as one carry-on item. American Airlines charges a $150 fee per direction for carry-on pets. Passengers must book in advance, as there is a limit to how many pets are allowed in the cabin per flight.
Valet Bags for Regional Flights
On regional aircraft, especially American Eagle flights, space for overhead bins is limited. If your carry-on bag is too large, it will be valet checked at the gate for free. You will then retrieve the bag on the jetbridge at your destination. Note that electronic items and restricted items should be removed before checking.
Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Baggage American Airlines allows passengers to file a report for delayed or damaged baggage either at the airport or online. For domestic flights, this must be done within 4 hours of arrival, and for international flights, the report should be filed before leaving the airport. If the bag is delivered but found damaged or with missing contents, claims must be made within 24 hours domestically or 7 days internationally. American Airlines may provide a tracking link if the bag was tagged with an AirTag or another tracking device, improving the chances of recovery.