American Airlines Increases Baggage Fees and Implements Stricter Rules

American Airlines Raises Baggage Fees

Recently, American Airlines announced an increase in checked baggage fees, a move that isn’t surprising given that other airlines have followed suit. However, this change is the largest among current adjustments and goes beyond just raising baggage fees.

Starting April 9, the airline will increase the fee for the first and second checked bags by an additional $10. This applies to all domestic flights and some short international flights. Here’s the new pricing:

• First bag: Increased from $40 ($35 if paid online in advance) to $50 ($45 if paid online in advance).
• Second bag: Increased from $50 ($45 if paid online in advance) to $60 ($55 if paid online in advance).
• The third bag will incur a fee of $200.

Tighter Regulations

American is also tightening regulations regarding basic economy fares. If you book a basic economy ticket, you will now need to pay an additional $5 for checked baggage. This means your first bag will cost $55 ($50 if paid online in advance) and the second bag will be $65 ($60 if paid online in advance).

American becomes the first airline in the U.S. to implement higher fees for those flying basic economy.

Reduced Elite Member Benefits

Passengers with elite status in the AAdvantage frequent flyer program will lose the benefit of free seat selection and upgrades when flying on the lowest fare class. These passengers will no longer enjoy complimentary upgrades and will not be able to apply system upgrades to these tickets.

The new regulations will take effect for tickets booked from May 18. Coupled with the cessation of earning points and miles when using basic economy tickets, American Airlines has swiftly transformed from one of the most flexible airlines to one of the most stringent.

Changes to Boarding Process

In addition to increasing fees and changing fare regulations, American Airlines has also announced a change in the boarding process. Starting later this year, AAdvantage members without elite status or co-branded credit cards will be required to board in Group 7 when flying on a basic economy ticket. Meanwhile, elite members and cardholders will still retain their boarding privileges even when traveling on this fare class.

All these changes will prompt passengers to reconsider their choices when booking with American Airlines’ lower fares. Fans of the airline will need to think carefully before making reservations.