The popular and well-known airline, American Airlines, announced its new policies regarding carry-on baggage for its customers. Here's the lowdown.
Indeed, American Airlines decided to eliminate the carry-on baggage measurement system. This measure had already been adopted by its counterpart, United Airlines.
The new regulation went into effect on October 6th and its main objective is to simplify the boarding experience for travelers. As of that date, metal baggage checkers were removed from airport gates.
American internal memo
According to an internal American Airlines memo, gate agents will now have the final say on carry-on baggage. They will use their own discretion to determine whether your carry-on bag is the required size or if it's too large and must be checked.
The airline stated that there will be no meters at the gate, but there will be in the concourses and some pre-security areas. This option will be ideal, especially for travelers who don't want to risk having their baggage rejected by the security agents on duty.
The airline's management expressly instructed its agents that if the bag seems too large or they are unsure, then they should opt for the customer's side. Of course, if the bag is too large, you will still have to check it.
American Airlines Carry-on Baggage Measurements
As a rule, travelers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item. The latter's dimensions will not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Carry-on baggage will not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches.
American Airlines' current checked baggage rates reflect a fee of $40.00 USD for the first bag and $45.00 USD for the second. This applies to travel within or between the United States, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands.