Carry-Ons Are Free in Basic Economy Again, at Least on One Airline

Heathrow, London, UK - January 28, 2016: American Airlines Boeing 767-323 (N399AN) departing Heathrow Airport, UK, bound for Chicago O'Hare International, USA in a clear blue sky. (Photo: iStock)

American Airlines officials announced this week that starting in September, passengers with basic economy tickets will no longer be charged for their first carry-on bag. The airline says the move is intended to “make basic economy more competitive.” American’s surrender leaves United as the sole remaining carrier among the big three to still charge some flyers for carry-on bags.

American Airlines President Robert Isom announced on Thursday that “basic economy fares will soon be more attractive.” The legacy carrier confirmed that beginning on September 5, passengers with basic economy tickets will be permitted to bring both one carry-on bag and one personal item in to the cabin without additional charge. Prior to the change next month, basic economy flyers will be permitted only one small personal item and are still required to check carry-on size bags at additional cost.

“Basic Economy is working well in the markets where we offer it, and we continue to see more than 60 percent of customers buy up to Main Cabin when offered a choice,” Isom told stakeholders this week. “Removing the bag restriction will make Basic Economy more competitive, allowing us to offer this low-fare product to more customers.”

American Airlines basic economy fares still carry a slew of extra restrictions including almost no flexibility to change the itinerary, additional fees for selecting seats, prohibitions on collecting or redeeming AAdvantage Miles and in most cases not being allowed to board the plane until all other passengers are aboard. The airline’s about-face on the strict carry-on restriction is widely seen as a response to pressure resulting from Delta Air Line’s refusal to match the extra restriction for basic economy flyers as well as Southwest Airlines generous checked and carry-on allowances for even its lowest fare tickets. United Airlines so-far has resisted market pressure to allow basic economy passengers to bring bags into the cabin.

“Basic Economy is working well in the markets where we offer it today,” AA said in a statement announcing the relaxed carry-on rules. “Customers benefit from our lowest fares that are competitive with no-frills carriers while experiencing American’s unparalleled network, better product and great customer service. Removing the carry-on bag restriction will make our short-haul Basic Economy fares more competitive with airlines that include a carry-on bag in their lowest fares.”

[Photo: Shutterstock]