American Airlines has recently implemented a cashless policy for checked luggage and overweight bag payments at more than 50 airport locations across the United States, including major hubs such as New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, Miami International Airport and Los Angeles International Airport.
The policy change means customers can no longer pay baggage fees with physical cash at ticket counters in the affected locations. Travelers who arrive without a credit or debit card are directed to use nearby ReadyStation kiosks. These ATM-like machines convert cash into prepaid debit cards for a $5 service fee, and they can issue cards loaded with up to $1,000 in value. The prepaid cards can then be used to complete baggage transactions and other purchases where card payments are accepted.
American Airlines said the shift away from cash is aimed at streamlining customer service and simplifying day-to-day operations for frontline staff. “Moving away from cash allows American to assist customers more efficiently,” said Alexis Aran Coello, a spokeswoman for the airline. Coello added that removing cash handling reduces the administrative burdens on agents, who no longer need to manage exact change, reconcile cash drawers at shift end, or transport cash for deposit.
Airline representatives also report that many ticket counter agents support the transition to a cashless environment because it reduces the time spent on cash-related tasks and helps create a more consistent, card-based payment flow. For customers, the expectation is faster interactions at check-in and baggage drop, along with fewer delays associated with counting and verifying cash.
American Airlines first introduced the ReadyStation kiosks at Miami International Airport three years ago as a pilot for this approach. After that initial rollout, the airline expanded the system to additional locations based on operational results and passenger usage. The expansion reflects a broader industry trend toward digital and card-based transactions, driven by convenience, security, and operational efficiency.
For travelers who prefer or must use cash, the ReadyStations offer a practical workaround by converting notes into a widely accepted card format. The $5 fee for the conversion is a fixed charge intended to cover the kiosk service and the cost of issuing a prepaid card. Customers considering this option should factor the fee into their travel budget and confirm card activation procedures at the kiosk, as activation steps may vary slightly by location.
Passengers who prefer alternatives to ReadyStation kiosks still have options in many locations: using a companion’s card, buying a single-use prepaid card from a retail outlet before arriving at the airport, or handling baggage fees during online check-in when card payment is possible. Travelers are encouraged to review airline guidance before traveling, especially if they do not usually carry a credit or debit card.
While the change affects more than 50 airports now, it does not necessarily reflect a permanent nationwide ban on cash at all American Airlines locations. The company continues to evaluate its operations and customer feedback as it rolls out cashless procedures more broadly. Travelers who expect to rely on cash should check the specific policies at their departure airport to confirm whether cashless payment is required and whether ReadyStations are available on-site.
Overall, the move to reduce or eliminate cash handling at multiple airports is framed as an operational improvement designed to speed service, improve consistency and reduce risk associated with managing physical currency. Customers who prefer card payments will experience little change, while those who carry only cash will need to use one of the available conversion or alternative payment methods to cover checked and overweight bag fees.