American Airlines raises checked baggage charge by USD5

American Airlines is increasing baggage fees for passengers, effective 01-Feb-2010, on American Airlines, American Eagle and American Connection service (AP, 18-Jan-2010). The first checked bag rate will increase from USD20 to USD25 on US, Puerto Rico and Virgin Island services, a second bag will be USD35 instead of USD30. The move follows the last baggage charge increase in Jul-2009, when fees were also raised by USD5, to offset rising fuel costs. First- and business-class passengers will remain exempt from the charge.