Dallas-Fort Worth based American Airlines is following the lead of it’s oneworld partner British Airways and reducing the free baggage allowance on it’s international flights.
Most economy class passengers traveling by American Airlines (AA) between locations in Europe, India and the US will soon have to pay $50 (Rs 2,450) to check-in a second bag under a revised baggage policy applicable for tickets purchased on or after September 14, 2009. The changes apply to transatlantic travelers on flights operated by American Airlines for travel to, from or through India, as well as European countries of Belgium, England, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain and Switzerland. The revised baggage policy is very similar to that of British Airways announced earlier this month which will take effect on October 7, and will be applicable for passengers traveling between certain locations in Europe, India and the US, including territories such as Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands.
Just as in the case of British Airways, passengers booked in First and Business Class cabins, as well as those who purchase full-fare tickets in the Economy Class cabins will not be required to pay any checked bag charge.
The move by British Airways and American Airlines comes in sharp contrast to many carriers operating from India who have announced an increase in their baggage allowances to gain a part of the massive student travel business.