One key aspect of an airline’s carry-on baggage policy is that it must be consistent with the policy officially filed with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Traveli s easier when you know what to expect and plan ahead. From packing to security checks, arranging for special circumstances such as children, pets, medical equipment or musical instruments, here’s the information that you’ll need to know.
According to American Airlines, the following applies to travel within the United States unless otherwise stated. Please check the country-specific chart below for exceptions to the U.S policies. Our Reservations agents can assist with policies or information not covered below.
You can carry on one bag plus one personal item per passenger as long as:
They weigh no more than 40 lbs/18 kgs
The bag is no more than 45 inches and the personal item is no more than 36 inches when you add the length + width + height so that it fits in an overhead bin or under the seat
Personal items includes: backpack purse, briefcase, laptop OR a similar item such as book bag or tote that does not exceed 36 inches( length+width+height) and fits under the seat.
Additional items that will be allowed above and beyond the restrictions listed above include:
Outerwear such as coats/wraps/hats
Book or newspaper
Small bag of food to eat on the flight – see guidelines for liquids
Approved safety seat for lap or ticketed child
Umbrella stroller for lap or ticketed child
Diaper bag for lap or ticketed child
Assistive devices for passengers such as wheelchairs, walkers and CPAP machines
Therapeutic oxygen provided by the airline
In addition to being in compliance with the FAA, it is important that customers avoid last-minute delays related to checking baggage at the gate. With that in mind, American Airlines has placed baggage "sizers" at curbs, check-in counters, and security access points to assist customers and our airport employees in determining whether or not certain belongings may be carried on board in accordance with our policy.
Please note that overhead bins on some of aircraft may accommodate differently sized baggage; however, the size of the carry-on item as specified in the FAA filing is the key factor and the "sizers" are designed in accordance with those specifications.
The carry-on baggage policy is intended to maximize convenience while satisfying the FAA’s requirements. We hope that you find this information helpful and very much appreciate your cooperation on this important matter.
Source: American Airlines
