American Airlines Announces Increased Checked Baggage Fees
If exorbitant airline fees have you reconsidering your travel plans, there’s some concerning news. American Airlines has announced that it is raising prices on checked baggage—for the first time since 2018, no less.
New Baggage Fee Structure
The updated price structure is as follows:
- $35 for first checked bags purchased online for domestic flights, including to Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico (up from $30)
- $40 for first checked bags on the same flights purchased at the airport (up from $35)
- $45 for second checked bags on domestic flights
- $35 for first checked bags to Canada and short-haul international flights
- $45 for second checked bags purchased online or at the airport to Canada and short-haul international flights
Understanding the Reason Behind the Increase
According to a report from February 20 by the Wall Street Journal, Scott Chandler, the airline’s senior vice president of revenue management and loyalty, explained the reasoning behind these increased fees.
“Fuel is a big component—obviously, the more bags we carry, the more fuel you’re burning,” he stated. “The cost of handling bags across the board, from real estate, machinery, et cetera, has gone up. This is trying to match that.”
Although this fee increase may seem disappointing, there is a silver lining: American Airlines is lowering the charges for overweight luggage to some extent. For bags weighing between 50-53 lbs, the fee has dropped to $30, while those exceeding 53 lbs but under 70 lbs will still incur the higher fee.
Challenges in Domestic Travel
Despite an overall decrease in the cost of domestic travel in 2023, travelers frequently encounter overspending, whether through fees or prolonged delays. American Airlines has faced substantial fines in the past; for instance, the airline was penalized over $4 million after the Department of Transportation found that it delayed over 5,800 passengers on the tarmac without allowing them to deplane.
On the bright side, many airlines, including American, have eliminated flight change fees—an adjustment stemming from revenue losses during the pandemic.
Strategies for Avoiding Airline Fees
As airlines continue to implement additional charges, there are several effective strategies to avoid costly airline fees and make travel more affordable:
- Book your flight as far in advance as possible to take advantage of free seat selection.
- Opt for online booking instead of booking via phone, which may incur a fee.
- Select airlines that do not charge for checked baggage.
In conclusion, understanding the current landscape of airline fees, including those implemented by American Airlines, is vital for travelers seeking to optimize their budgets. Therefore, staying informed about changing policies can help you make more economical choices for your adventures.
