Checked baggage may never be locked. Transportation Security Administration employees will likely remove the lock--breaking it, if necessary--when it is sent for screening. American Airlines also asks that fliers never check valuables such as money, jewelry or electronics and that the passengers always carry items with immediate need such as medications, on their persons. In 2008, American Airlines banned travelers from packing lithium batteries in checked luggage.
American Airlines flights to India, Europe and most of Asia allow economy class passengers to check one bag, up to 62 inches and 50 pounds, for free. Bags up to 70 pounds may be checked for free to Brazil. All other international destinations have varying size and weight restrictions. Baggage over the allowed weight and size will be subject to additional fees. Business, first class and elite status fliers may check up to three pieces of luggage at no additional cost.
On flights within the U.S., the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico and Canada, passengers are allowed one small personal item, such as a briefcase or purse, and one small bag, less than 45 inches, for carry-on. Anything larger, up to 62 inches and 50 pounds, must be checked. American Airlines charges non-elite, economy class passengers for checking any number of bags. However, business class, first class and elite fliers are allowed to check up to three bags for free.
Other items that cannot be checked in baggage on American Airlines flights include: animals, loaded firearms, alcoholic beverages over 70 proof, defense sprays such as mace or pepper spray, explosive devices (including fireworks), toxic and flammable items (including bleach) and pressurized containers (including spray cans and propane tanks). When in doubt, contact American Airlines before you leave for the airport.
