Say goodbye to carry-ons as you know them: American Airlines announces major baggage policy changes for 2025

Bringing a carry-on bag has been a routine practice for air passengers for a long time, but that may soon be over. American Airlines is said to be considering a major overhaul of its baggage policy in 2025, one that could significantly impact what travelers can carry aboard. For regular fliers, this change ahead poses a vital question: will your existing carry-on be permissible?

This prospective revision follows on the heels of new EU rules for airport luggage that already disoriented travelers bound for the U.S. on September 1, 2024, as more stringent carry-on regulations come into force at European Union airports, reducing the size and content of eligible bags. As a result, American Airlines and other airlines will likely update their guides and provide easier directions on the airline's website. But concern is growing in the United States that the changes might extend beyond Europe and impact domestic air travel as well.

ALSO SEE: Attention shoppers! Big Lots announces store reopenings across the U.S. in May – Is there a location near you?

What are the changes for carry-on baggage?

Currently, American Airlines allows passengers to bring one personal item and one carry-on bag. Personal items such as laptop cases, purses, or small backpacks must fit under your seat in front of you and cannot exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches. Carry-ons can be up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including wheels and handles. If your bag is bigger than these dimensions, it will probably be checked through to the cargo hold, generally without an additional fee.

Though, the leniency of this policy depends on the size of the plane and the airport from which you are departing. Some airports, like Miami International, are known for strict enforcement, even refusing bags that are only slightly too large. Travelers have reported typical gate disputes over bags, making it as much a routine issue as long TSA lines.

Why are these happening now and how to prepare for changes?

The transformation is necessitated by a combination of regulatory reforms and logistics. The airlines worldwide are streamlining policies to cut down on delays caused by full overhead bins. The first to move is the European airports, and now the American carriers are jumping into action so as not to subject international passengers to inconveniences.

There is also a business incentive. Stricter baggage limits might push more people to check their luggage, something that generates revenue for airlines in the form of billions of dollars annually. Whether or not the move is to streamline things or fatten the bottom line is open to question, but most flyers may not welcome the change.

Other large airlines, including Delta Air Lines, West Jet, and Southwest, are also updating their baggage policies in 2025.

In an effort to be ahead of these changes, double measure your bag dimensions prior to the next flight. If it is larger than what is used in the standard airline sizer, consider that it may have to be stowed in cargo. Review TSA and FAA list of prohibited items as well to avoid bringing something aboard that could result in penalty or delay. Examples of forbidden items include alcohol greater than 70 proof and Swiss Army knives.

The silver lining is that American Airlines will probably give due notice before introducing any new baggage policies.