Originally Posted by
pa3lsvt
Every flight is a valet flight for pax in F. If a carry-on needs to be checked for someone in F due to space reasons, it will be returned (along with strollers, musical instruments, etc.) in the jetway upon arrival.
I've been flying AA quite a bit for decades, largely in F, and never knew this. It makes sense, since strollers and wheelchairs are handled this way, but I'd always assumed that cabin bags taken away on mainline would be gate-checked and go to baggage claim. Good to know, as it makes sizing less of a hassle.
(By the way, in my experience, this is definitely NOT how it's handled on BA or QF. I've had agents take my 22" roll-aboard and it's always been sent to baggage claim (or delayed).)