As a member of the military, travel can be part of your life and it’s important to be aware of airline policies regarding your baggage. American Airlines has a specific military policy that you should be aware of before booking your next flight.
Baggage allowance for active duty military
If this is your case, AA offers five free checked bags (5 x 100 Ibs) when you travel on order and three free checked bags (3 x 100 Ibs) for leisure travel. Each bag can weigh up to 100 pounds and measure up to 126 inches in total dimensions in the first case, and 50 pounds and 62 inches in the second case.
To make their travel experience smoother, American Airlines has implemented special rules for military personnel. However, it is important for them to follow the guidelines for carrying excess baggage to avoid any problems during the travel process.
– Overweight baggage
For regular passengers, American Airlines charges an additional fee for overweight baggage exceeding 50 pounds per bag. However, for active US military personnel, there is no charge for bags weighing up to 100 pounds each. That being said, an item that exceeds over 100 pounds will still be subject to additional charges.
– Oversized baggage
As with overweight baggage, the US carrier charges additional fees for oversized baggage exceeding 62 linear inches (length + width + height). For active US military personnel, there is no charge for bags up to 126 linear inches. Any bag that does not meet this limit will be subject to excess baggage charges.
However, it is important to note that while excess baggage may be permitted, it is subject to space availability. The national carrier prioritizes the safety and comfort of all passengers, which may mean that not all excess can be accommodated on a particular flight. It’s always best to check with an AA agent ahead of time to make sure baggage can be carried.
– Traveling with a military dog
Aware of the importance of military and police dogs, American Airlines now offers them the opportunity to travel for free on its flights. This initiative aims to support dog handlers and organizations in their mission of service and protection. The airline’s initiative is a gesture of gratitude for the services rendered by these dogs and a way to honor their contribution to society.
The initiative applies to all working dogs, including those in military and law enforcement organizations. Dogs are allowed to travel in the aircraft cabin (or in cargo hold, if trained to attack) depending on their size and the flight route. Dogs must be accompanied by their handler or an official representative of the organization they work for.
Lost or damaged baggage? Claim refund from American Airlines
If you lost or damaged baggage while traveling with American Airlines, you can file a claim for reimbursement by following these steps:
– Report the problem
As soon as you discover that your suitcase is lost or damaged, immediately notify an AA baggage service agent at the airport. They will provide you with a claim file number, which is important for tracking your claim.
– Retain documents
Such as your boarding pass, receipt for paid baggage fees, claim number, etc. These documents will be required to support your claim for reimbursement.
– Contact customer service
You can do this by calling their customer service number or using the communication channels available on their website. Call 1-800-535-5225
– Fill out a complaint form
Be sure to provide specific details of the incident, your contact details and any other items requested. Fill out this form.
– Claim tracking
After filing your claim, be sure to track its status regularly. You can contact AA Customer Support for updates on the progress of your claim.
According to the most up-to-date information regarding American Airlines’ Military Claims Handling Policy for Lost or Damaged Baggage, claims are processed within 45 days from the date they are filed, which must be within 24 hours to seven days from the date of flight arrival.