American Airlines. Photo: Abdul N Quraishi - Abs / Shutterstock American Airlines began updating its new baggage fees and Basic Economy fares this month (April, 2026), further sharpening the difference between Basic Economy tickets and regular economy class (Main Cabin).
According to the company, these changes result from an ongoing review of pricing policy and from taking into account current operating conditions.
The new baggage fees for domestic flights (including Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands), as well as to Canada and short-haul international flights are:
-$50 for the first bag
-$60 for the second bag
-$200 for the third bag.
Payment is made at the airport.
Customers who pay in advance on the company's website or app will receive a $5 discount and will pay:
-$45 for the first suitcase
-$55 for the second suitcase
Customers flying on a Basic Economy ticket on domestic flights will pay:
-$55 for the first bag
-$65 for the second bag
For airline tickets purchased from May 18 onwards, paid in advance on the website or app, passengers will pay:
-$50 for the first suitcase
-$60 for the second suitcase
American also announced it will continue to offer Basic Economy tickets at a low price, which will include one free personal item, a free carry-on bag, snacks and soft drinks, and in-flight entertainment.
However, for tickets purchased on or after May 18, seat selection will be available only for a fee, and there will be no eligibility for free upgrades (even for status holders). Later this year, non-status passengers will board in boarding group 7, and status or credit card holders will continue to receive priority boarding. Status holders will receive free seat selection, free upgrades in Main Cabin, and all AAdvantage members will receive free Wi-Fi (sponsored by AT&T)
Additionally, Basic Economy ticket travelers in certain markets in South America will pay $70 for their first bag starting this month, with additional markets to be added starting May 18.
It was also announced that all AAdvantage members with status will continue to receive free baggage. In addition, certain company credit card holders will receive a first bag free of charge on domestic flights. In addition, passengers in premium classes (Business/First) will receive free baggage. Active-duty US soldiers are also entitled to free baggage on all flights.
American Airlines is one of the world's largest airlines, operating over 6,000 flights a day to more than 350 destinations in more than 60 countries, and serving over 200 million passengers annually.