American Airlines is making checked bag fees more expensive while also tightening its policy on which travel agency bookings can earn frequent flyer miles.Beginning Tuesday, the fee for a passenger's first checked bag on a domestic flight is $35, if they pay online. If you pay in person, the fee is $40. A second bag will cost $45 to check regardless of whether you pay online or at the airport. It previously cost $30 to check one bag with American Airlines, and a second bag was $40.
As for booking, American Airlines is cracking down on where travelers can earn AAdvantage frequent flyer miles when they purchase a plane ticket. Starting May 1, flights must be booked with American Airlines, preferred travel agencies, and eligible oneworld and partner airlines to earn flyer miles.Passengers will no longer be able to earn miles or loyalty points on basic economy tickets that aren't booked directly through American Airlines or its partner airlines.