AMERICAN AIRLINES CARRY-ON RESTRICTIONS

Understanding the rules and restrictions when it comes to what you can bring on board as carry-on luggage on American Airlines is crucial to ensuring a hassle-free journey. American Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board, with the carry-on bag limited to 22 x 14 x 9 inches. There are certain restrictions that are given on American Airlines, and this will be listed and discussed in this post. Also, carry-on bags must fit in the sizer at the airport and personal items must fit under the seat.

American Airlines Carry-On Restrictions

American Airlines has specific restrictions on what can be carried on board their flights. It is important to be aware of these restrictions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

Here are the key points regarding American Airlines’ carry-on restrictions:

#1. Carry-On Bag Allowance

American Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item on board. The carry-on bag should fit in the overhead bin, while the personal item should fit under the seat in front of you

#2. Size Restrictions

The carry-on bag should not exceed the maximum dimensions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 centimeters), including handles and wheels. The personal item should be smaller and fit comfortably under the seat in front of you.

#3. Restricted Items

Certain items are restricted from being carried on American Airlines flights. These items must be checked in or left behind. Restricted items on American Airlines include liquids, powders, sharp objects, firearms, and hazardous materials. These must be packed in checked baggage and declared according to the airline’s policy.

#4. Carry-on Bag Size and Weight

It shouldn’t exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches / 56 x 36 x 23 centimeters (including handles and wheels) and must fit in the sizer at the airport. The American Airlines carry-on weight limit is forty pounds (18 Kg) [2].

#5. Personal Item Size

It shouldn’t exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 centimeters) and must fit under the seat in front of you.

#6. Restricted Alcohol Items

Some items can only travel in your carry-on bag, and some items must be checked. Make sure you know where to pack these restricted items. Examples of prohibited items include but are not limited to, the following: alcohol over 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters), camping equipment that uses flammable fuel, caustic or corrosive items, and hoverboards

#7. Musical Instruments

Musical instruments are also considered a carry-on item and must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

#8. Special Items and Sports Equipment

Special items and sports equipment may have additional restrictions.

#9. Batteries

Batteries are allowed in carry-on bags only. For lithium-ion batteries, the lithium content cannot exceed 2 grams per battery. For lithium-ion batteries, there are specific restrictions as well

#10. Regional flights

Regional flights on American Eagle® planes have limited overhead bin space. If your carry-on is larger than the personal item dimensions, you must valet your bag before boarding.

Benefits of American Airlines Carry-On Restrictions

American Airlines carry-on restrictions offer several benefits to passengers. These are the main advantages

#1. Convenience and Efficiency

By allowing passengers to bring a carry-on bag and a personal item, American Airlines enables travelers to have their essential belongings easily accessible during the flight. This eliminates the need to wait for checked baggage upon arrival, saving time and providing a more convenient travel experience.

#2. Cost Savings

Carrying on your luggage instead of checking it can help you save money. American Airlines charges fees for checked bags, and by adhering to the carry-on restrictions, passengers can avoid these additional costs.

#3. Flexibility and Control

Having your belongings with you in the cabin gives you more control over your items and provides peace of mind. Passengers can keep valuable or fragile items close at hand, reducing the risk of damage or loss that can occur with checked baggage.

#4. Quicker Departure and Arrival

With carry-on luggage, passengers can bypass the check-in counter and proceed directly to the security checkpoint, saving time and avoiding potential lines. Upon arrival, there is no need to wait at the baggage claim area, allowing for a faster exit from the airport.

#5. Accessibility during the Flight

Carrying your belongings on board allows you to have easy access to essential items during the flight, such as medications, electronics, or personal documents. This ensures that you have everything you need within reach throughout the journey.

#6. Avoiding Baggage Mishaps

By keeping your luggage with you, you reduce the risk of mishaps such as lost or damaged bags. This can provide peace of mind, especially when traveling with valuable or irreplaceable items.

#7. Safety and Security

Carry-on restrictions play a crucial role in maintaining safety and security on flights. By prohibiting certain items, such as sharp objects and hazardous materials, from being carried on board, American Airlines ensures the safety of all passengers and crew members.

#8. Streamlined Boarding Process

With carry-on restrictions in place, the boarding process becomes more streamlined and organized. Passengers can easily stow their carry-on bags in the overhead bins, reducing the need for additional assistance or delays during boarding.

#9. Partnership with TSA PreCheck

American Airlines participates in the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) PreCheck program, which allows eligible passengers to enjoy expedited security screening at select airports. This can save time and make the travel experience more efficient.

#10. Loyalty Program Benefits

The American Advantage loyalty program provides additional benefits to frequent flyers, such as preferred boarding, the first eligible checked bag free, and the ability to earn and redeem miles for future travel. These benefits can enhance the travel experience for loyal customers.

Disadvantages of American Airlines Carry-On Restrictions

While American Airlines’ carry-on restrictions offer several benefits, there are also some potential disadvantages, such as

#1. Limited Space

The size restrictions on carry-on bags can limit the number of personal belongings passengers can bring on board. This can be challenging for travelers who prefer to have all their essentials easily accessible during the flight or those who need to carry fragile or valuable items.

#2. Additional Fees

If passengers exceed the carry-on size or weight limits, they may be required to check their bags, which can result in additional fees. This can be an inconvenience and an unexpected expense for travelers who were not aware of the restrictions or who underestimated the size of their carry-on bags.

#3. Inconvenience at Security Checkpoints

The restrictions on liquids and powders can cause inconvenience at security checkpoints. Passengers need to ensure that their liquids are properly packed in a clear, quart-sized plastic bag and that they comply with the size limitations. This can lead to additional time spent at security checkpoints and potential delays.

#4. Limited Accessibility during the Flight

With limited space in the overhead bins, passengers may need to place their carry-on bags several rows away from their seats. This can make it inconvenient to access personal items during the flight, especially if there is turbulence or if passengers need to retrieve something quickly.

#5. Exceptions for Basic Economy Passengers

While American Airlines allows basic economy passengers to bring a full-size carry-on bag on board, some other airlines restrict this privilege. This can create confusion and inconsistency for passengers who are accustomed to different carry-on policies when flying with different airlines.

#6. Inconvenience for Passengers with Fragile or Valuable Items

Passengers who need to carry fragile or valuable items may find it inconvenient to check them in instead of carrying them on board. Checking in such items increases the risk of damage or loss during transit.

#7. Potential Delays at Security Checkpoints

The restrictions on liquids and powders can cause delays at security checkpoints, as passengers need to ensure their items comply with the size limitations and are properly packed. This can be time-consuming and may lead to frustration, especially during peak travel periods.

#8. Lack of Consistency with Other Airlines

Carry-on restrictions can vary between different airlines. Passengers who frequently travel with multiple airlines may find it challenging to keep track of the different policies and restrictions, leading to confusion and potential non-compliance.

#9. Exceptions for Elite Members and Cardholders

While American Airlines may offer exceptions or additional benefits to elite members and holders of eligible co-branded credit cards, this can create a sense of inequality among passengers. Those who do not qualify for these exceptions may feel disadvantaged compared to others who receive preferential treatment.

#10. Insufficient Space for Personal Belongings

The size restrictions on carry-on bags can be challenging for passengers who prefer to have all their essential items easily accessible during the flight. With limited space in the overhead bins, passengers may need to pack strategically and prioritize what they bring on board.

What Items Are Not Allowed As A Carry-On For American Airlines?

American Airlines has restrictions on carry-on items, including firearms, oversized carry-on bags, hazardous materials, sharp objects, liquids and powders, and certain sports equipment. Firearms, oversized bags, hazardous materials, sharp objects, liquids, gels, and aerosols must comply with TSA guidelines. Sharp objects should be packed in checked baggage.

What Does American Airlines Allow for Carry-On?

American Airlines allows passengers to bring one carry-on bag, one personal item, special items and sports equipment, and liquids and gels as carry-on. The bag should fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of the passenger. Special items and sports equipment, such as musical instruments and strollers, are allowed as carry-ons. Liquids and gels should be packed separately for easier inspection at security checkpoints.

Can I Take a Carry-On and a Backpack on American Airlines?

Yes, you are allowed to bring a carry-on bag and a backpack on American Airlines. The carry-on bag should meet the size restrictions of 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 centimeters) and fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. The backpack can be considered your item and should be smaller in size, fitting securely under the seat in front of you. The maximum size for the backpack is typically 18 inches by 14 inches by 8 inches (45 cm by 35 cm by 20 cm).

How Many Bags Does American Airlines Allow For Free?

American Airlines allows passengers to bring one free carry-on bag and one free personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag. The carry-on bag must meet size restrictions and fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. The number of free checked bags allowed depends on factors such as fare type, destination, and passenger status. Generally, passengers can check up to 10 bags for free on domestic, transatlantic, and transpacific flights. However, for flights to and from Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America, the number of free checked bags may vary.

Can I Bring Perfume To American Airlines?

You can bring perfume on American Airlines. Personal care items such as aerosol deodorant, cologne, perfume, and hair spray are allowed in carry-on bags. However, there are restrictions on the size of each container. The size of each liquid, aerosol, or gel (LAG) container should not exceed 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters), and the total limit is 1 liter with a maximum of 10 containers per passenger.

Can I Bring Perfume On A Plane?

Passengers are allowed to bring perfume on a plane, both in their carry-on bag and checked luggage. In the carry-on bag, the perfume container must hold no more than 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) and be placed in a clear, plastic, quart-sized bag for screening. There are no specific size limitations for perfume in checked luggage, but the overall quantity should not exceed 2kg (4.4 pounds) and each container should not exceed 500 ml (16.9 ounces). Duty-free purchases of perfume after passing through security are also allowed on the plane, even if they exceed the 3.4-ounce limit.

Conclusion

Carrying personal items in the cabin allows passengers to keep valuables close, reducing the risk of damage or loss. Carrying on board also ensures the safety of all passengers and crew members. American Airlines’ carry-on restrictions have some disadvantages and they must be considered before taking a step. These restrictions can also cause confusion and potential non-compliance for travelers who frequently travel with multiple airlines.