2026 airline guide
American Airlines: check-in, bags & seats
Check-in & Cutoffs
Online window, airport check-in cutoffs, and bag-drop deadlines
Baggage Fees & Size Limits
Carry-on rules, checked bag fees, oversize and sports equipment
Seats & Upgrades
Economy seat pitch and width, upgrade options, seats to avoid
Routes & hubs
Top routes, hub airports, and where this airline flies
Fees & policies
Seat selection, change, cancel, pet, and phone booking fees.
Miles & loyalty
Earn rates, elite tiers, best redemptions, and partner airlines.
Upgrades
How to get upgraded — elite status, miles, bid upgrades, and gate upgrades.
International
International routes, baggage fees, passport requirements, and check-in rules.
American Airlines quick facts
What to know before you fly
- AA raised bag fees in 2026: domestic 1st bag now $50 Main Cabin / $55 Basic Economy at airport (effective for tickets issued on/after May 18, 2026); Basic Economy pays $5 more per bag than Main Cabin.
- Basic Economy on AA includes 1 free carry-on bag and 1 personal item — unlike Delta/United which charge for carry-ons in their basic tier.
- AAdvantage credit cardmembers get the 1st checked bag free on domestic AA itineraries; all AAdvantage status members also receive complimentary bags on AA flights.
Related guides
Know exactly when to leave home
The Leave-By calculator factors in your drive time, parking, check-in, bag drop, and security — so you hit the gate with time to spare.
Calculate my leave-by time →Data verified 2026-06-28. Always confirm times and fees on the American Airlines website before you fly.