Carry-On Baggage

American Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board for free.

Carry-on bag size limit:

• Maximum dimensions: 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels.

Personal item examples:

• Laptop bag
• Purse
• Small backpack
• Briefcase

The personal item must fit under the seat in front of you. Oversized carry-on bags may be checked at the gate and might incur a fee.

Checked Baggage

The checked baggage allowance depends on your route, cabin class, and frequent flyer status.

Standard checked bag rules for domestic flights:

• First checked bag: $30
• Second checked bag: $40
• Additional bags: Higher fees, depending on the number and destination

Size and weight limits:

• Maximum weight: 50 lbs (23 kg) for Economy; 70 lbs (32 kg) for First and Business Class
• Maximum linear dimensions: 62 inches (158 cm)

International flights:
Some international routes include one or two free checked bags, especially in premium cabins or on transatlantic flights. Always check specific route details before departure.

Overweight and Oversized Bags

If your bag exceeds the standard limits:

• Overweight fee (51-70 lbs): $100 per bag
• Oversized fee (63-126 inches): $200 per bag
• Bags over 126 inches or 100 lbs are not accepted as checked luggage

Special Items and Sports Equipment

American Airlines accepts certain sporting goods, musical instruments, and fragile items, but they must meet size and weight restrictions. Additional charges may apply.

Examples:

• Golf bags: Allowed as checked luggage (fees may apply)
• Bicycles: Usually treated as standard checked baggage if packed properly
• Musical instruments: Can be carried onboard if they fit in overhead bins or under the seat

 Unaccompanied Minor Policy

American Airlines provides a specialized service for children traveling alone, ensuring they are assisted throughout their journey.

Who qualifies as an unaccompanied minor?

• Children aged 5 to 14 traveling without a parent or legal guardian must use the Unaccompanied Minor service.
• Children aged 15-17 can request the service, but it is optional.

Service Details

Fee:

• $150 each way (non-refundable) in addition to the ticket price.

What’s included:

• Dedicated airport staff assistance at departure and arrival
• Escort through security and to the gate
• Pre-boarding and handover to a designated adult upon arrival
• Tracking wristband for added security

Important restrictions:

• Only allowed on non-stop or direct flights (no connections or overnight layovers)
• Not permitted on codeshare flights or certain international flights

 Cancellation and Refund Policy

Life happens, and sometimes travel plans change unexpectedly. American Airlines offers several options to cancel and receive refunds or credits.

Basic Economy Tickets

• Non-refundable and non-changeable
• You may cancel, but you will not receive a credit or refund

Non-Refundable Tickets

• Can be canceled before departure
• You receive a flight credit (minus a cancellation fee, if applicable)
• Credits typically valid for one year from the original ticket issue date

Refundable Tickets

• Fully refundable to the original payment method if canceled before departure
• No cancellation fee

Refund Process

Refunds can be requested online through the “Manage Trips” section, or by contacting American Airlines customer service. Refunds to credit cards are usually processed within 7 business days.

Exceptions

• Military orders
• Death of the passenger or immediate family member (documentation required)
• Schedule changes by the airline resulting in significant delays

Date Change Policy

American Airlines has revised its change fee policies in recent years to be more traveler-friendly.

Domestic and Short-Haul International Flights

• No change fees on most domestic and short-haul international flights
• You pay any difference in fare if the new flight is more expensive

Long-Haul International Flights

• Change fees may apply depending on the fare rules and route
• Fare difference applies

Basic Economy

• Not eligible for changes or upgrades

Same-Day Flight Changes

Passengers can switch to an earlier or later flight on the same day for a fee (starting at $75), subject to availability.

🛫 Check-In Policy

Online and Mobile Check-In

• Opens 24 hours before departure
• Closes 45 minutes before domestic flights and 90 minutes before international flights

Airport Check-In

• Recommended to arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights
• Check-in counters usually close 45 minutes before departure for domestic and 60 minutes for international flights

Self-Service Kiosks

Available at most major airports. Passengers can print boarding passes, check bags, and pay for additional services.

ID and Document Requirements

• Government-issued photo ID for domestic flights
• Passport and, if required, visa for international travel

🪑 Seat Selection Policy

American Airlines offers passengers multiple ways to select seats.

Complimentary Seat Selection

• Available for Main Cabin and higher fare classes at booking or later
• Basic Economy: Assigned automatically at check-in; limited paid seat selection available

Preferred and Main Cabin Extra

• Preferred seats: Usually closer to the front of the cabin or exit rows
• Main Cabin Extra: Additional legroom and early boarding privileges (fees apply)

Premium Cabins

First and Business Class passengers can choose seats for free at booking.

 Special Assistance Policy

American Airlines provides various services for travelers needing extra help.

Passengers with Disabilities

• Wheelchair assistance
• Priority boarding
• Assistance for visual or hearing impairments
• Accessible lavatories on select aircraft

Traveling with Service Animals

• Only trained service dogs are accepted
• Emotional support animals are no longer considered service animals as per updated policy

Traveling While Pregnant

• No restrictions before the 36th week
• After 36 weeks, a doctor’s note confirming fitness to fly is recommended

 Pet Travel Policy

American Airlines allows pets to travel in-cabin or as cargo.

In-Cabin

• Small dogs and cats only
• Must fit in an approved carrier under the seat
• Fee: $125 per kennel (one-way)

Checked Pets (Cargo)

• Larger pets must travel via American Airlines Cargo
• Subject to health and temperature restrictions
• Booking in advance required

 Code of Conduct and Passenger Rights

American Airlines adheres to a passenger code of conduct to ensure the safety and comfort of all travelers.

In-Flight Conduct

• Disruptive behavior can lead to fines or being banned from future flights
• Face masks may be required depending on route and local regulations

Denied Boarding and Overbooking

• Passengers involuntarily denied boarding due to overbooking are entitled to compensation per U.S. Department of Transportation regulations
• Volunteers may be asked first, often with travel vouchers offered as incentives

 Other Important Policies

Alcohol Policy

• Passengers cannot consume their own alcohol onboard
• Alcoholic beverages are served only by cabin crew

Lost and Found

• Items left onboard or at the airport should be reported immediately
• You can submit a lost item report on the American Airlines website

Delays and Cancellations

• If your flight is canceled by American Airlines, you may request a rebooking or a refund
• Meals or accommodation may be provided in cases of long delays caused by the airline

Loyalty Program: AAdvantage

• Earn miles on flights and through partners
• Elite status benefits include upgrades, extra baggage allowance, and priority services