American Airlines Raises Bag Fees
American Airlines has joined most other U.S. carriers in increasing prices for checked bags. Bag fees have been updated effective for tickets issued on or after April 9, 2026, with Basic Economy getting hit with an extra $5 increase.
JetBlue, United, and Delta, and Southwest, have all increased their fees over the last as they look to offset higher jet fuel prices. That leaves Alaska as the last holdout.
American Airlines passengers will now pay the following prices for domestic flights, Canada, and short-haul international flights:
- $45 for first checked bag when prepaid, $50 at the airport ($10 increase).
- $55 for second checked bag when prepaid, $60 at the airport ($10 increase).
- $200 for third checked bag ($50 increase).
Passengers flying Basic Economy, the cheapest fare, will pay even more for checked bags. The new price for the first bag will be $55, and $65 for the second. The $5 pre-pay discount still applies.
You can see the new fees here. Premium cabin passengers, active-duty U.S. military personnel, and AAdvantage status members will continue to get free bags. AAdvantage credit card members also get a free bag on domestic flights.
