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American Airlines Checked Bag Size & Weight Limit

How big and how heavy your checked bag can be on American Airlines, what you pay if it’s over, and how to measure it.

Last verified Source: American checked bag page

The short answer

A American Airlines checked bag can weigh up to 50 lb (23 kg) in economy and measure up to 62 linear inches (158 cm), length + width + height combined. The first checked bag costs $50 ($45 online); the second costs $60 ($55 online).

American checked bag size and weight limits

Max size (L + W + H)
62 in
158 cm
Max weight, economy
50 lb
23 kg
1st checked bag
$50 ($45 online)
2nd checked bag
$60 ($55 online)

The online price applies when you pay on aa.com or the app up to 2 hours before departure. Basic Economy checked bags cost $5 more.

How to measure linear inches

Measure the bag’s height, width and depth at the widest points, including wheels, handles and side pockets, then add them up. A 28 × 19 × 12 in suitcase is 59 linear inches and fits under the 62-inch limit. Most suitcases sold as 29–30 inches land right at 62 inches, so check the exterior size on the spec sheet before you buy. Our suitcase size chart shows typical sizes.

Overweight and oversize fees

  • Overweight: 50–53 lb: $30. 53–70 lb: $100. 70–100 lb: $200. Over 100 lb not accepted.
  • Oversize: 62–65 linear in: $30. 65–115 in: $200. Over 115 in not accepted.

Fees for overweight and oversize bags are charged on top of the regular bag fee, and a bag that is both is often charged both.

Ways to avoid the fee

  • Eligible AAdvantage credit cardholders get the first checked bag free on domestic American itineraries.
  • AAdvantage Gold members get 1 free bag, Platinum 2, Executive Platinum and Platinum Pro 3.
  • On American Eagle regional jets, carry-ons bigger than a personal item are valet-checked free at the aircraft door.
  • Travel with only a carry-on and personal item. American Airlines Carry-On & Personal Item Size.

American compared with other airlines

American Airlines checked bag limits compared
AirlineChecked weightChecked size1st checked bag2nd checked bag
American Airlines50 lb23 kg62 in158 cm (L+W+H)$50 ($45 online)$60 ($55 online)
Delta50 lb23 kg62 in157 cm (L+W+H)$45$55
United50 lb23 kg62 in157 cm (L+W+H)$50 ($45 prepaid)$60 ($55 prepaid)
Southwest50 lb23 kg62 in157 cm (L+W+H)$45$55
Every airline’s checked bag limits

Frequently asked questions

How much can a checked bag weigh on American Airlines?
50 lb (23 kg) in economy before overweight fees apply. 50–53 lb: $30. 53–70 lb: $100. 70–100 lb: $200. Over 100 lb not accepted.
What is the maximum checked bag size on American Airlines?
62 linear inches (158 cm), adding length, width and height. 62–65 linear in: $30. 65–115 in: $200. Over 115 in not accepted.
How much is a checked bag on American Airlines?
First bag: $50 ($45 online). Second bag: $60 ($55 online). Prices are for American’s main routes as of our last check.

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