American Airlines raises checked bags fee

checked-luggageAmerican Airlines is the latest airline to raise its checked bag fees, putting it in the same class as other carriers that introduced increased fees earlier this month. The new checked bags fees for American Airlines passengers will go into effect on airline tickets purchased after Feb. 1.

The first checked bag will now be $25 (up from $20) on flights in the U.S., Puerto Rico and U.S. Virgin Islands. A second checked bag will cost $35 (up from $30). First- and business-class travelers, and members of the armed services, will be exempt from checked bag fees.

The fees apply to passengers on all flights within the company -- American Airlines, American Eagle and American Connection.