Fees & policies
American Airlines fee schedule (2026)
American Airlines seat selection starts at $0 for standard seats on most main cabin fares. Flight changes cost $0 (most fares). Bringing a pet in the cabin runs $150 each way. The full table below covers every optional-service fee American Airlines publishes for 2026 — so there are no surprises at checkout.
Seat fees
| Fee type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Standard seat selection | $0 for standard seats on most main cabin fares; Main Cabin Extra $20–$70 |
| Preferred seat (front/aisle) | $20–$70 (Main Cabin Extra — first few rows, bulkhead, exit rows) |
| Exit row / extra legroom | Included in Main Cabin Extra ($20–$70) |
Change & cancel fees
| Fee type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Flight change fee | $0 (most fares); Basic Economy: no changes |
| Cancellation / refund | $0 for travel credit; cash refund for refundable fares |
| Same-day change / standby | $75 for same-day confirmed; standby free |
Other fees
| Fee type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Pet in cabin | $150 each way |
| Phone booking fee | $25 per person booking fee by phone |
| Unaccompanied minor | $150 each way for ages 5–14 |
Does American Airlines charge a fee to select a seat?
$0 for standard seats on most main cabin fares; Main Cabin Extra $20–$70. Preferred seats near the front or with extra legroom run $20–$70 (Main Cabin Extra — first few rows, bulkhead, exit rows). Exit rows: Included in Main Cabin Extra ($20–$70).
What is American Airlines's flight change fee?
$0 (most fares); Basic Economy: no changes. Same-day changes: $75 for same-day confirmed; standby free. Cancellations: $0 for travel credit; cash refund for refundable fares.
How much does American Airlines charge to bring a pet in the cabin?
American Airlines charges $150 each way for a pet in the cabin. Always call ahead to confirm space — most airlines limit the number of pets per flight.
Does American Airlines charge a fee to book by phone?
$25 per person booking fee by phone. Booking online or in the app avoids this charge entirely.
More American Airlines guides
Fee data verified . Fees are subject to change — confirm at American Airlines's official website before booking.