American Airlines now allows free carry-on bag for 'basic economy' passengers

American Airlines' basic economy tickets now come with one less restriction. Travellers are allowed to bring a standard carry-on bag in addition to a personal item that fits under the seat in front of them. Until Wednesday, travellers were only allowed to bring on a personal item. Bags that did not fit under the seat were checked at the gate for a charge of US$50. American Airlines CE Doug Parker said in July that the tweak is designed to allow the airline to "become more competitive.'' Delta Air Lines already allows passengers buying basic economy tickets to bring a free carry-on. "We put this product out with a slightly different model than others had done in the past,'' Parker said. "We think the right thing to do is to get in line with the competition.'' <br/>