American Airlines Raising Prices of Checked Luggage

Bad news for American Airlines passengers, the airline is increasing the prices of their checked luggage. American Airlines announced on Tuesday that they are increasing the price of the first checked luggage to $40 if the passenger didn’t opt to prepay online.

On the other hand, it’s $35 if passengers paid online during check-in. That is equivalent to as much as a 33% jump from their old pricing which was $30 for both options. Aside from the price of the first checked luggage, American Airlines is also increasing the price of a second checked luggage to $45, coming from $40.  

Flights affected include those within the United States and those flights between Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands. It also affects flights to and from the United States and Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean. 

No Price Increase Since 2018

American Airlines justified its move in a press release saying that the airline hasn’t increased its prices since 2018. It also mentioned that they are decreasing prices on the heavy luggage, described by the airline as their “lowest fee ever.”

American Airlines’ current pricing for checked luggage makes them the most expensive compared to other major US airlines. Delta Air Lines and United Airlines both charge $30 for the first checked bag and $40 for the second on similar routes mentioned. However, don’t be surprised if these airlines follow American Airlines’ move. It is common for the industry to follow each other’s pricing especially if one of them increases their price. 

The price increase happened at a time when airlines were dealing with different problems, including the rising fuel and manpower costs. American even revealed in its earnings report that its net income dropped by 98% in the last three months of 2023. 

A Good Source of Income

US airlines make a good amount of money on these fees. In 2022, baggage fees alone generated $6.8 billion among US airlines according to the Bureau of Transportation and Statistics.