Is American Airlines extremely strict about checked baggage size?

Question

The limit on the website is 62" but my suitcase is like 64". I haven't travelled since these new restrictions were enforced so I'm wondering- do they actually measure your checked bags? or do they normally let it go through if it looks the right size and also do you include the wheels in the measurement? (that adds another inch or so to my luggage)

Answer 1

Even before AA got even more strict... they are very picky about your luggage, and they even do check your wheels. Unfortunately, they don't bring out the measureing tape, but if it looks too big, they usually will just tell you it's too big. It also depends on who is doing the checking. If they are having a bad day, then your chances are going to be likely that they will turn it away. They also have size restrictions becuase of the scanning devices. Just to be on the safe side, I would just try and find something smaller.

Answer 2

Because there's money to be made, my guess is they are strictly enforcing baggage rules. And if they decide to enforce the restrictions, it's going to be particularly expensive for you:

"Checked baggage which is larger than 62 in/157 cm will be charged at the rate of $150 per piece." (from https://www.aa.com/aa/i18nForward.do?p=/...