American Airlines Makes Major Changes to Carry-On Bag Policy and Boarding Process

Travelers with bags boarding American Airlines at airport gate

American Airlines has implemented significant updates to its carry-on baggage rules and boarding procedures, aiming to streamline passenger experience and reduce conflict at the gate. The removal of the physical bag sizers at boarding gates is the most notable change, alongside tweaks to how and when passengers board.

Key Takeaways

  • Physical bag sizers removed from American Airlines gates, effective immediately
  • Gate agents will now use discretion for accepting carry-on bags at boarding
  • Bag sizers remain available in airport lobbies for initial size checks
  • Updated boarding process gives premium passengers dedicated pre-boarding
  • Boarding start times adjusted for certain aircraft to speed up the process

Gate Bag Sizers No Longer Used

In a move that mirrors similar actions by rival United, American Airlines has officially retired the metal bag sizers previously stationed at boarding gates. These devices, designed to determine if a passenger’s carry-on met the strict size requirements, will now only be found in check-in and pre-security areas.

Instead of relying on a definitive measurement tool at the gate, agents will assess whether bags are appropriately sized using their judgment. The company has advised staff to “err on the side of the customer” for bags that are slightly over the standard but still fit reasonably well in overhead bins. However, travelers are warned to consolidate third items—such as handbags or crossbody purses—into their two main carry-on pieces before boarding.

Implications for Passengers

The absence of a physical sizer means flyers with bags that might slightly exceed official dimensions are less likely to be forced to check them at the gate. Many bags sold as “compliant” tend to be marginally larger than allowed, especially when accounting for handles or wheels. Without the sizer, judgment calls by agents may result in more leniency, but also potential inconsistencies.

Passengers preferring objective standards may miss the sizers, as decisions on bag size are now at the agent’s discretion. However, lobby sizers remain available for those who want assurance before reaching security.

Updated Boarding Procedures

American Airlines has restructured its boarding process to make aircraft entry smoother and reduce crowded boarding groups. Premium-cabin travelers and top-tier elites are now invited to pre-board before the start of regular group boarding, alongside families with small children and those needing extra assistance.

The new boarding order is as follows:

Boarding Group Who Boards
Preboard First/Business, Concierge Key, Families w/ Young Kids, Extra Assistance
Group 1 Executive Platinum, Active Duty Military
Group 2 Platinum Pro, Oneworld Emerald
Group 3 Platinum, Oneworld Sapphire
Group 4 Gold, Oneworld Ruby, Lifetime AirPass, Elite Cardholders
Group 5-9 Main Cabin, Basic Economy

Additionally, boarding times have shifted earlier for select flights. For instance, flights on larger single-aisle planes such as Boeing 737s now begin boarding up to 40 minutes before departure.

New Tech for Hassle-Free Boarding

A new software at boarding gates is designed to prevent passengers from boarding out of turn. The system alerts gate agents if someone attempts to enter before their group is called, ensuring fairness and reducing crowding at the gate.

What Travelers Should Expect

With more flexible carry-on enforcement and refined boarding order, passengers could enjoy a quicker, less stressful airport experience. Those with marginally oversized or overstuffed bags may find agents more accommodating, though final decisions are now subjective. Checking bag size in the lobby remains the best way to avoid surprises at the boarding door.

Sources

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