American Airlines is preparing to implement tighter carry-on baggage rules in response to evolving European airport regulations—a move that may soon impact millions of U.S. travelers.
The changes redefine what qualifies as a carry-on, signaling a broader effort among airlines to align policies internationally.
Since last fall, a growing number of airlines, including American Airlines, have begun adjusting their baggage allowances to match Europe’s new criteria. At present, American permits carry-on bags no larger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches, inclusive of wheels and handles. However, with European airports now strictly enforcing these size limits, even slightly oversized bags may be turned away at the gate or forced into the cargo hold.
Travelers have typically been allowed to check larger bags at no cost if they exceeded cabin limits, but some international airports are taking a firmer stance—refusing bags that don’t meet the exact measurements or requiring an extra fee at the gate.
Airlines across the globe are moving toward standardized baggage rules in a bid to reduce boarding delays and avoid issues with items that don’t fit in overhead bins. This international effort aims to streamline operations and maintain consistency across markets.
The tightening of baggage policies also appears to carry financial motivations. With checked baggage generating billions in revenue annually for airlines, critics argue the shift could be more about profit than passenger convenience. Still, airlines position the changes as necessary steps toward operational efficiency.
American Airlines is not alone. Other major players like Delta, WestJet, and Southwest have already announced similar policy revisions in 2025, indicating a wider industry shift that travelers will increasingly need to navigate.
Further complicating air travel are the rising restrictions on carry-on contents. The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) continues to prohibit items such as lithium-ion batteries and drones, but agents are increasingly flagging power banks and smart luggage whose batteries cannot be removed.
In addition, the 3-1-1 liquids rule is alive and well, though some passengers still try to push that boundary. Always check your airline’s carry-on policy to avoid surprises at the gate.
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