American Airlines removes boarding gate bag sizers

It is a move to simplify the boarding process and give gate agents a little more autonomy over customer service decisions.

While the policy itself hasn’t changed, the move is to give agents more flexibility to ‘use their judgement’ and ‘err on the side of the customer’ if unsure whether the bag size flouts the maximum requirement.

The airline laid out the new gate procedure in an internal memo.

American Airlines later confirmed the initiative.

“As we further simplify the boarding experience for our customers and team members, American will remove bag sizers from the gate area.”

United Airlines removed gate bag sizers five years ago.

American confirmed the actual carry-on size restrictions are unchanged.

A carry-on item measuring no more than 22’ by 14’ by 9’ inches is allowed.

A small personal item that is able to fit under the seat in front is also permitted.

Bag sizers will remain at check-in areas.

The internal memo stated that the changes took effect earlier this week.