The announcement from American Airlines regarding increased baggage fees and limitations on frequent flyer miles has left many travelers feeling uneasy about the future of their flying experience.
Starting in May 2023, passengers will have to pay an additional $5 to check their first bag for domestic flights when booking online in advance, or a $10 increase if purchasing the option at the airport. The price for a second checked bag will also see an increase, rising to $45 from $40 for both advance and airport purchases. These changes come more than five years after the last bag fee increase in September 2018, a move made by several major airlines in response to declining airfare revenue.
Elite status frequent flyer members and American Airlines credit card holders will still receive complimentary checked bags, offering some relief for loyal customers. Additionally, the airline is reducing fees for slightly overweight bags, aiming to alleviate the stress of having to hastily remove items from suitcases at the check-in counter.
In a further effort to drive traffic to their website, American Airlines will begin limiting which third-party tickets are eligible to earn frequent flyer miles. Basic economy ticket holders will only earn miles if they book directly through the airline’s website, and a list of preferred travel agencies whose bookings will still be eligible for rewards credits will be provided in April.
These changes mark the latest in a series of alterations to American Airlines’ AAdvantage frequent flyer program, signaling a shift in industry strategies to combat declining airfare revenue. The impact on travelers’ overall flying experience remains to be seen, as the push to drive traffic to the airline’s website continues to evolve.