Last month, American Airlines announced it was raising fees for the first and second checked bags on domestic flights by $5 each. The new rates are already in effect for tickets purchased after the change.
Passengers now pay $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second. These fees apply to travel within the United States, as well as routes across North America and the Caribbean.
American Airlines noted that many travelers remain eligible for free checked baggage. Exemptions include AAdvantage elite members, cardholders of certain Citi/AAdvantage products, customers confirmed in first or business class, military travelers using qualifying fares, and other eligible groups.
This increase marked the first notable rise of this magnitude for checked baggage fees since 2010, prompting other carriers to follow. Delta Air Lines and United Airlines have adopted the same pricing structure, charging $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second on comparable routes.
The move reflects a broader industry trend toward unbundling airfares and shifting more services into optional add-ons. Travelers who want to avoid these fees can consider packing light with carry-on luggage, taking advantage of airline status and co-branded credit card benefits that include free checked bags, or comparing fares and policies across carriers before booking.
When planning travel, check the specific baggage rules that apply to your ticket and itinerary, since exemptions and allowances can vary by fare class, route and loyalty status. Confirming baggage allowances at the time of booking or before check-in helps prevent unexpected charges at the airport.