If the aircraft you’re going to board is a jetliner like Boeing, carry-on rules are not usually so strict. But regional flights with smaller aircraft may not be lax about carry-on. Overhead bin space is limited in those aircraft. American Airlines carry on rules may be strict on flights of American Eagle, the regional subsidiary of American Airlines. Here are some general rules observed with respect to carry-on.
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Size of the carry-on - On any flight the size of the carry-on is limited to 22x14x9 inches.
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Items not allowed in carry-on - TSA rules prohibit certain items which may pose a threat to safety of passengers.
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Special items like musical instruments - Musical instruments may be considered a carry-on if they can be adjusted in overhead bin or under the seat.
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Liquid items - Liquid items may be permitted but you’ll have to limit the content to 100ml in each container.
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Items purchased at airport - Items purchased at duty-free shops may be allowed.
Sizers at airports can be used to know whether the carry-on size American Airlines is suitable. If it is oversized, you must consider checking them. Otherwise, it may have to be gate-checked. Our HolidayGlobes blog will get everything sorted on how this airline treats your carry-on.
What if my Cabin Bag exceeds the permitted size on American Airlines?
You must keep in mind that the size of carry-on should be within 22x14x9 inches. If its over this, the check-in agent may politely ask you to check the bag and probably pay charges. Charges incurred may depend on whether you have a free checked American Airlines baggage allowance. Basic Economy ticket holder do not have checked bags in their allowance. You may have to pay a charge of $40. Here are some situations you may face.
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Gate-checking of the cabin bags - If the flight is too crowded, you may be asked to gate-check a cabin bag. No charges will apply.
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Valet-checking of carry-on - Space for carry-on is limited on smaller planes. Carry-on is valet-checked.
Gate-checked bags may be returned to you at the jet bridge on arrival. For details or assistance, you may visit or contact HolidayGlobes.
Can I Carry all Items on board an American Airlines Flight?
While packing American Airlines flight baggage, you need to be careful with the items. Sharp-edged items like scissors or knives can only be kept in the checked bag. Medications for personal use may be kept in the carry-on. But the 3-1-1 rule must be followed for liquid medicines like cough syrups. Here are a few tips you will find useful.
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Valuable items and documents should be kept in the carry-on - It is always a good idea not to leave items like documents, cameras or smartphones in the checked bags.
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Items needed for infant use will not be considered as carry-on - Infant use items like diaper bags, breast pump, soft-sided cooler of breast milk and child safety seat, strollers.
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Mobility aids or devices will not be considered as carry-on - Crutches, canes etc., may be allowed but they must not obstruct the movement of passengers.
Do you have to pay Charges for Cabin Bags on American Airlines?
American Airlines will usually not charge you for a cabin bag. But each passenger is allowed to have only 1 carry-on and 1 personal item. Another carry-on may incur AA baggage fees. Also, the carry-on should be easily adjustable in the overhead bin. A soft-sided bag is recommended by the airline as it gets stowed easily under the seat or in the overhead bin. The permitted size of the carry-on and personal item is 22x14x9 inches and 18 x 14 x 8 inches respectively. When sizing the bag, American Airlines baggage policy will also consider the wheels and handles. Charges will apply if the items exceed the size limit. Here are some situations when you will not be charged.
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No charge applies for mobility device - If you’ve a foldable wheelchair, you may be allowed to use it in the cabin or check it without any American Airlines baggage charges.
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No charge applies on items meant for keeping infants safe - Child safety seats or strollers will not be charged.
You may book an additional seat for an expensive musical instrument. You’ll have to pay an adult’s fare. For details or assistance, feel free to visit or contact HolidayGlobes.