# American Airlines is the latest major carrier to increase checked bag fees, citing rising fuel prices.

*business · news · 2026-04-10 · Gainesville Sun*

## Key points

- American Airlines now charges $50 for the first checked bag and $60 for the second.
- Basic economy passengers on American must pay to select a seat and are ineligible for upgrades.
- American's new bag fees apply to tickets booked April 9 or later for domestic and select international flights.
- JetBlue, United, Delta, and Southwest all raised checked bag fees within weeks of each other.
- Prepaying for checked bags online with American or United provides a $5 discount per bag.

**Companies:** American Airlines, Delta, United Airlines, Southwest Airlines, JetBlue
**Countries:** United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands

[Read the full story on Gainesville Sun](https://www.gainesville.com/story/news/2026/04/10/american-airlines-checked-bag-fees-cost/89548358007/)

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