American Airlines is raising Bag Fees and changing the way you can earn Frequent-Flyer Points on its Loyalty Program! Find out how it can impact you!

American Airlines (AA) is implementing changes to their bag fees and frequent-flyer program (AAdvantage) effective May 1st, 2024. Acording to AA, these updates aim to incentivize direct bookings through the airline or its partners while streamlining the customer experience. The airline, based in Fort Worth – Texas, introduced bag fees in 2008 to cope with the rising cost of jet fuel. Ever since, they have become a steady revenue source for most major U.S. carriers. The last time the company reaised the baggage fees was back in 2018.

These changes may impact frequent flyers who typically book through online travel agencies or rely on point accumulation for travel rewards. Passengers are advised to be aware of the revised fees and booking requirements to avoid unexpected charges and maximize their travel benefits.

What are the key changes?

New American Airlines’ bag fees

• Domestic Flights
  • First Checked Bag: $35 online and $40 at the airport;
  • Second Checked Bag: $45 online and at the airport.
• Short International Flights (including Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean)
  • First Checked Bag: $35;
  • Second Checked Bag: $45.

The airline will still allow customers with elite status in American’s loyalty program, those who purchase a premium-class ticket, or users of an American-branded credit card to check at least one bag for free.

Graduated Fees for Overweight/Oversized Bags

• Customers with slightly overweight or oversized bags will receive a gentler fee structure instead of the full penalty (ranging from $100 to $650).
• Graduated fees begin at $30 for bags exceeding weight/size limits by a small margin (up to 3 pounds or 3 linear inches).

AAdvantage Program Update

• Starting May 1st, only passengers who purchase tickets directly through AA, its partner carriers, or specific preferred online travel agencies (to be announced in late April) will earn AAdvantage points.
• Corporate travel arrangements remain unaffected.

Why is American Airlines changing their bag fees and frequent-flyer program?

• Direct Booking Incentives: AA aims to encourage direct bookings through its channels by offering exclusive AAdvantage point benefits. This strategy aligns with the industry-wide trend of airlines seeking greater control over ticket sales and reducing reliance on travel agents.
• Improved Customer Experience: AA argues that in-house sales allow them to better explain new products and features, offering a more streamlined and informative experience compared to relying on third-party platforms.

“The old way of booking a ticket relied on agents having a ton of experience and understanding product attributes. The old technology doesn’t let us explain things very well, and it is a little more confusing for customers when we introduce new products. About 60 percent of American’s ticket sales are already made directly through the airline.” – Scott Chandler, vice president of revenue management.