American Airlines raises checked bag fees, trims economy perks

American Airlines (AAL) is adjusting its checked bag fees and further differentiating its Basic Economy fare from its standard Main Cabin offering. The company said, “These changes are the result of the airline’s continuing evaluation of pricing and in light of the current operating environment.For tickets booked on or after April 9, the new bag fee for domestic flights including Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Canada and short-haul international flights is $50 for the first checked bag, $60 for the second checked bag and $200 for the third checked bag when purchased at the airport. Customers who prepay for their first and second checked bag on aa.com or through American’s mobile app will receive a $5 discount, paying $45 and $55, respectively. Customers traveling on a domestic Basic Economy ticket will be charged $55 for their first checked bag and $65 for their second checked bag for tickets purchased on May 18 and beyond. Those who prepay for bags on aa.com or the mobile app will receive a $5 discount, paying $50 and $60 for the first and second checked bags. Travelers purchasing Basic Economy tickets in select South America markets will be charged $70 for their first checked bag for tickets purchased on April 9 and beyond, with additional South America markets added for tickets purchased on May 18 and beyond…For customers who value the lowest price, American will continue to offer Basic Economy fares in Main Cabin. Basic Economy tickets give customers the benefit of American’s extensive network and schedule, along with one free personal item and one free carry-on bag, free snacks, soft drinks and inflight entertainment. For Basic Economy tickets purchased May 18 and beyond, all customers, including those with status, will be able to select a seat for a fee and will not be eligible for complimentary and systemwide upgrades.”