American Airlines carry-on size 2026: 22 x 14 x 9 inches
American Airlines allows one carry-on bag of up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels, plus one personal item of up to 18 x 14 x 8 inches (45 x 35 x 20 cm) that fits under the seat in front of you. American does not publish a weight limit for either bag.
Checked 4 Nov 2026. Rules change, so confirm on your booking before you fly.
| Bag | Maximum size | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| Free under-seat bag | 45 x 35 x 20 cm (17.5 x 14 x 8 in) | None published |
| Cabin bag 22 x 14 x 9 in, including handles and wheels | 56 x 36 x 23 cm (22 x 14 x 9 in) | None published |
The personal item can be a purse, laptop bag or small backpack. At 18 x 14 x 8 inches it is one of the larger personal item limits among US airlines, and a bag built for 40 x 30 x 20 cm in Europe fits inside it.
The 22 x 14 x 9 inch carry-on limit is the US standard, shared with Delta and United, so one carry-on case usually works across the three. Measure it with the wheels and handle, as American's limit includes them.
On full flights, carry-on bags may be checked at the gate. Keep medicines, chargers, keys and travel documents in the personal item so you have them whatever happens to the larger bag.
Tips for flying American Airlines
- An 18 x 14 x 8 inch backpack is the most useful single bag for American flights.
- Check the depth of soft cases when packed: 9 inches is easy to exceed with a full front pocket.
- Board with your group; late boarders are the most likely to have bags checked at the gate.
Bags that fit American Airlines
Other airlines
Ryanair · easyJet · British Airways · Jet2 · United · Delta · Frontier
Sources: aa.com