American Airlines is eliminating its oversize bag fees for large sports equipment and musical instruments ahead of the summer travel season. Passengers checking items including surfboards, skis and bikes will now pay standard checked bag fees instead of an oversize bag fee of $150 each way on domestic flights.
Like all checked bags, the items still must not weigh more than 50 pounds or overweight bag fees of$150 for those items will apply, though fees may vary. American charges $30 each way for the first checked bag and $40 for a second checked bag.
American said the new policy, which takes effect immediately, was based on feedback from customers and employees.
Certain items, including antlers, hang gliders, scuba tanks and kite/windsurfing gear, will still be subject to the flat $150 fee because they require special handling.
