American Airlines has raised the fees for checked baggage, making it more expensive to check a bag with them than with any other major U.S. carrier. The cost for the first checked bag on most flights has increased to $40 when paid at the airport and $35 if paid online during check-in, marking a $5 increase from previous rates. This adjustment affects flights within and between the United States, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands, as well as routes to Canada, the Caribbean, Mexico, and Central America. The changes apply to flights booked starting this week, but passengers with previously purchased tickets, as well as those with airline-branded credit cards, premium cabin tickets, or status, are exempt from the increased fees.