American Airlines raising checked bag fees

For the first time in more than five years, American Airlines customers will pay increased fees for checking baggage on board, the airline announced Tuesday.

Travelers will pay $35 for their first checked bag when purchasing online and $40 when purchasing at the airport, the airline announced. press release. The airline used to charge $30 for the first checked bag.

This change applies to flights within and between the United States, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

According to the airline, a second checked bag will cost between $40 and $45 whether purchased online or at the airport.

Most AAdvantage credit card members will receive their first eligible checked bag free on the airline’s domestic flight, the airline said.

Checked baggage fees for Canada and short-haul international flights will also increase by $5. Both online and at the airport, the first checked bag costs $35 and the second checked bag costs $40.

The Fort Worth, Texas-based airline added that the price changes will affect flights booked after Tuesday. According to the airline, this is the first increase in baggage fees since 2018.

American Airlines is the latest of several airlines to increase baggage fees in an effort to increase revenue. CNBC reported. This comes after airline ticket prices fell an estimated 6.4% in the year to January. According to the data Published by the Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.

American Airlines also reduces fees for slightly overweight bags. Anyone with a bag three pounds over the 50-pound limit will pay a $30 fee instead of the previous $100 fee.

The airline is also changing its policies for customers who want to earn points in its AAdvantage loyalty program, allowing travelers to book directly with the airline.

You can earn miles and loyalty points when you book directly with American and “Eligible Partner Airlines,” or when you book as an AAdvantage Business member or contracted corporate traveler. Customers will also be able to earn miles and points through a list of designated travel agents that will be released in late April. This change will apply to tickets issued after May 1st.

Tickets with basic economy fares will only earn points when booked directly with American Airlines and its eligible partner airlines, the company added.

“We want to make it easier for our customers to enjoy the value and appeal of travel,” said Vasu Raja, chief commercial officer of American Airlines. “Booking directly with American not only gives you the best experience possible, but it’s also where we offer the best fares and is the most rewarding thing for AAdvantage members.”