logo
Blog single photo

American Airlines Stroller Policy – A Complete Guide

Traveling with young children can be both exciting and difficult, particularly when it comes to navigating airports. In fact, for families traveling together, being aware of the American Airlines stroller policy is essential to a hassle-free trip. Besides that, American Airlines, like all other airlines, allows strollers on board. You can read their most recent stroller and travel system policy down below. So keep reading, and keep in mind that American Airlines stroller policy may differ from that of other airlines. To save more on your flight tickets, You can use cash back credit cards while booking your flight.

American Airlines Stroller Rules

1- Stroller Types Allowed

American Airlines accepts various stroller types for travel. This includes umbrella-style strollers that fold up, full-size strollers, jogging strollers, and travel systems. However, it is crucial to keep in mind that oversized and non-collapsible strollers might have particular restrictions, which we will go over in the sections below.

2- Stroller as Carry-On or Checked Baggage

 American Airlines allows passengers to bring strollers as both carry-on and checked baggage. The decision between the two options based on the stroller’s size, the amount of space in the overhead bin, and personal preference. Nevertheless, it is best to check with the airline ahead of time to see if your stroller meets the criteria for carry-on or checked baggage.

3- Carry-On Stroller Policy

AA will let you take your stroller through security and to the boarding gate if you choose to bring it as a carry-on. Moreover, the airline staff will help you check the stroller at the gate, and it will get kept in the cargo area of the plane for the duration of the flight. Not to mention, you will get the stroller back at the gate when you get to your destination.

4- Checked Stroller Policy

If you choose to check your stroller as luggage, AA will issue you a gate-check tag to attach to your stroller. Furthermore, this tag enables you to use the stroller throughout the airport up until the gate, where it will get picked up and put in the cargo area. Likewise, you can pick up your stroller at the gate or in the designated baggage claim area when you arrive.

5- Stroller Restrictions and Guidelines

American Airlines has a few restrictions and guidelines for strollers to ensure the security of its customers and adherence to its policies:

  • Weight and Dimensions

The total length, width, and height of a stroller should not be greater than 62 inches (157 cm). In fact, it is crucial to confirm the precise weight limits with the airline, as additional weight restrictions might apply. In short, oversized and overweight strollers may necessitate additional fees or special arrangements.

  • Stroller Accessories

Remove any detachable items, such as cup holders, trays, or baskets, before boarding and transport them separately. In other words, during the flight, you can store these items in the overhead compartment or under your seat. So, it is critical to secure loose parts to avoid damage.

  • Stroller-Friendly Airports

Some airports have received the “Stroller-Friendly” designation from American Airlines. These airports also offer wider security checkpoints, specific areas for dropping off and picking up strollers, and priority boarding for families traveling with strollers. Therefore, for a list of these facilities that welcome strollers, check with the airline or the airport.

Which is preferable, gate checking or checking the stroller at the main check-in desk?

  • Strollers at the Ticket Counter

If your stroller weighs more than 20 pounds (9 kilograms), you must check it at the ticket window. At the time of flight check-in, you can do this. In short, the same fees that apply to other oversized luggage will apply when the stroller gets checked as oversized luggage.

  • Strollers at the Gate

If your stroller weighs less than 20 pounds / 9 kg you can leave it at the gate before boarding your flight. In addition, you must fold the stroller and hand it over to the gate agent. In the end, the airplane’s cargo hold will house the stroller.

  • Strollers and Security

The TSA will inspect your stroller before allowing you to board your flight. That is to say, you must fold your stroller and pass it through the X-ray machine. You will need to have your stroller manually searched by a TSA agent if it is too big to fit through the X-ray machine.

Where do I collect my stroller?

You can typically get it from the baggage claim area where you get your suitcases. Likewise, if you cannot see your oversize luggage on the belt, check it in. Furthermore, some airports will deliver it to the aircraft door once everyone else has exited after arrival. Instead of the airline, it really depends on the policies of each airport. Lastly, if you need to pick up your luggage at the baggage carousel, a baby sling or carrier will come in very handy.

Top Tips for Traveling with a Stroller on American Airlines

Here are some practical tips to help you have a more straightforward and enjoyable trip:

  • Label Your Stroller

Fasten a luggage tag to your stroller that includes your contact information. In simple terms, this will help the airline quickly find it and give it back to you if it’s lost.

  • Stroller Bag or Cover

To protect your stroller during transit, consider purchasing a protective stroller bag or cover. Simply put, this is especially helpful for strollers that are expensive or delicate.

  • Early Arrival

Get to the airport early to give yourself plenty of time to go through security checks and register your stroller. To put it another way, this will ensure a smooth boarding procedure and reduce last-minute stress.

  • Gate-Check Tags

When checking in your stroller, ask an airline employee for a gate-check tag. To put it differently, this will guarantee that your stroller is properly identified and handled while traveling.

  • Know Your Stroller

Before your trip, become familiar with the stroller’s folding and unfolding process. After all, this will help you navigate through security checkpoints and board the aircraft faster.

Other Policies to Consider

If you are flying American Airlines with a child, you should be aware of a few other policies in addition to the one regarding strollers. These policies are as follows:

  • Under-2-year-olds must sit on an adult’s lap.
  • You cannot put a child in an exit row seat if they are under 2 years old.
  • It’s prohibited to fly alone with a child under the age of two.

Conclusion

Knowing American Airlines stroller policy inside and out will make it simpler to travel with a stroller on the airline. Furthermore, families can make sure their trip goes smoothly and have fun by following the provided instructions. So, follow the size and weight requirements and think about additional safety precautions, whether you decide to check your stroller or bring it on board as carry-on luggage. After all, by taking advantage of the amenities offered by stroller-friendly airports and following the advice given. This way, you can enhance your family’s travel experience and make lasting memories. Apart from it you can also check American airlines baggage policy.

FAQ 

1- Is it possible to bring a stroller on American Airlines?

Yes, you can bring one stroller and one car seat for free on American Airlines flights.

2- What are the weight and size limits for strollers on American Airlines?

Size:** 45 inches (length) x 28 inches (width) x 22 inches (height)

* **Weight:** 20 pounds

Additionally, strollers that go over these limits will get checked at the ticket counter.

3- Where can I check my stroller when flying with American Airlines?

At the ticket window or the gate, you can check your stroller. You must check your stroller at the gate at least 30 minutes prior to the departure time of your flight.

4- Will I get my stroller back at the same gate?

No, not always. After your flight lands, strollers are typically delivered to the baggage claim area. However, if you are flying to a large airport, you may receive your strollers at the gate upon arrival.

5- What happens if my stroller gets harmed or stolen?

American Airlines is liable for any stroller damage or loss. If your stroller gets damaged or lost during the flight, you must file a claim with the airline.

Top