arfgoblue

Add BOG, where i've been forced to check-in otherwise legal carry-ons.

UA_Eagle

Hello,
I've already done a search beforehand and haven't been able to find the answer to my question. I'm aware of AA's policy regarding fitting the carry-ons in the sizer, but in reality, how strict is AA enforcing the carry-on rules?

A bit of background, I'm traveling DCA-DFW-PDX in a few days in award F, and have no elite status (used to be Gold/Plat years ago though, but doesn't help me here). I'll have one carryon that slight exceed the limits (and am prepare to check it in if necessary, but I hope not), and another carry-on that would probably be fine. I haven't flown on AA in a couple of years (last trip was May 2008, I believe), and I'm aware things has changed quite a bit since then.

So while technically, I might be breaking the carry-on size rules, I'm pretty confident my bigger carry-on would fit fine in the bin. But I wanted to find out how likely they'll make me put my carry-on in the sizer at DCA and DFW (as well as PDX and DFW on the return)?

Thanks everyone!

brp

Unfortunately, there is no solid answer. It's very case-specific. My general experience is that they're not enforcing diligently, but it could happen when you go. If you'd be OK checking, I'd take the risk. Probably a low risk.

Cheers.

brock256

I don't know about DCA, but my general experience has been "not strictly enough". On my last flight (on a Mad Dog), the guy sitting next to me had so large a carryon that it would not even fit in the DEF overhead wheels-first. He ended up turning it sideways, and it was so long that not even one more rollaboard would fit.

videomaker

If it doesn't meet the size limit (45 linear inches), be prepared to check it, as you say you are. You may or may not be challenged. But if it "looks" large, you may very well be required to check it.

I'm not sure what search terms you used, but here are some threads which discuss the issue and I'm sure there are others. Search terms: "carry on"

Rollaboards that fit (or don't fit) AA carry-on baggage sizers


Forced checking of legal-sized carry-on?


Carry-on size restrictions...

Thunderroad

Chances are you'll be fine. And if they challenge you re your bags, you could point out that you're in F so there should be adequate overhead space. But yeah, be prepared to check it if they insist.

UA_Eagle

Thanks everyone. Guess I probably don't have too much to worry about, but be prepared just in case (only clothes, nothing tempting for TSA or baggage handlers).

Dallas49er

Yeah, what Thunderroad said. Good advice. I have seen the sizers used once in the last 2 years.

Best advice: Try not to look guilty!

qazw1

Depends on airport. Also aircraft. At ORD this week, they check anything that looks close. Even for First.

mvoight

IMHO, you should check the bag you already know is too big, AND the "probably" part of this has me wondering if you are planning to put this "smaller" bag under the seat or also in the overhead

intlflyer

+1
I recetnly saw a person bring a bag on that was obviously to large to fit in the overhear and after standing looking at the overhead bins for a couple of minutes, even he figured it out.

Hotel_junkie

It's not just this week...ORD has been picking up it's inspection on carry on bags at the TSA line...they don't even wait for you to get to the gate...

Interesting, because at the gate you'd probably get to check the baggage in for free, but at the TSA line they would probably charge you at the TA.

UA_Eagle

The smaller one will go under the seat. The 'larger' one is about the same size or smaller than other carryons I've seen in the past. Again, if I have to check in, so be it, but I prefer not to if I can help.

marksskram

The answer is not strictly enough -- causing issues and delays during the boarding process.

I originate from DCA a lot and have never had my overpacking companions asked to use the size apparatus to check their bag.. however they do usually gate check it.

Captain Mike

Leaving SAN yesterday on way to ORD. TSA had random "secondary screening checks" at most gates, just like post-9/11. I think this prompted the GA to question the rollaboard that has never been questioned in probably 6 years on AA. There was a slight bulge on top, making it just fit into the sizer with much squeezing and pushing. GA did not like that, so she called over a "luggage supervisor", who kindly suggested that I take out the toiletries bag that was causing the bulge. I did so, and it fit into the sizer easily. He gave it his blessing and I was on my way. I'm thinking that the day before the July 4th holiday weekend caused the TSA to be extra vigilant, which in turn made the GA extra picky with them looking over her shoulder. I guess terrorists might think July 4th weekend is symbolically a good time to cause trouble, prompting this whole extra layer of scrutiny. Be prepared, everyone.