American Airlines bag fees jump to highest in the industry

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — One airline is departing from its typical luggage fees — which have remained the same for the past seven years.

American Airlines made the price hike in several areas with an announcement Tuesday, the primary one being a $10 jump in the fee for the first checked bag.

Bag 1 changes

American Airlines travelers who book flights on or after Feb. 20 can expect to be charged an industry-high $40 for their first checked bag if purchased at the airport. This $40 fee applies to all domestic U.S. travel and marks a $10 increase from American's previous $30 first bag fee, which was set in 2018.

For those who pay for their first checked bag fee ahead of time online, it will cost $35 on all domestic flights.

Bag 2 changes

For a second checked bag on domestic American flights, the airline has raised fees to $45. This is a flat fee, regardless of whether it is purchased online or in an airport.

Traveling outside of the United States?

The new bag fees for Canada and short-haul international flights are $35 for the first checked bag and $45 for the second checked bag purchased online or at the airport.

Pet fees and other changes

Furry companions are not immune to the rate hikes, either.

American has also switched up the price for travelers with in-cabin pets. This fee has been upped from $125 per pet to now $150 for travels booked on or after Feb. 20.

Additionally, American has put its foot down on the list of acceptable oversized checked items. For example, after April 17, javelins, vaulting poles and hang gliders will no longer be allowed on flights.

The American Airlines website provides a detailed look at the new baggage fees as they apply to all international destinations.