American Airlines raises baggage fees, alters mileage program

American Airlines is raising baggage fees and making other changes to encourage customers looking to earn frequent flier miles to buy tickets directly from the airline

American Airlines said Tuesday that checking one bag on domestic flights will increase to $35 from $30 now and $40 when purchased at the airport. The fee for a second checked bag will increase from $40 to $45 both online and at the airport.

The company last raised baggage allowance fees in 2018.

The airline is also increasing baggage fees by $5 for short international flights, including to Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean – now $35 for the first bag and $45 for the second.

The airline will generally allow customers to check at least one bag for free if they have elite status in U.S. loyalty program, purchase a first-class ticket or use an American-branded credit card.

Scott Chandler, vice president of revenue management, said about 60% of American’s ticket sales are already made directly through the airline.

The changes are part of a move by airlines to move away from using and paying commissions to travel agents and take ticket sales in-house, he said.

Source: Newsroom