American Airlines Bans Laptops From Overhead Bins in New Policy Shift

American Airlines has implemented a controversial new policy prohibiting laptops and other large electronic devices from being stored in overhead compartments, forcing passengers to keep these items under the seat in front of them. The change, which took effect this week, represents one of several baggage policy modifications the carrier has introduced for 2025 aimed at improving boarding efficiency and reducing flight delays, according to Travel and Tour World.

The policy has sparked immediate backlash from business travelers and frequent flyers who rely on overhead bin space to store their electronics safely while maximizing limited legroom below seats.

Safety Concerns Drive Controversial Decision

American Airlines cites passenger safety as the primary motivation behind the laptop ban. Company representatives point to incidents where heavy items shifting during turbulence have caused injuries and damage to property. By requiring laptops to remain under seats, the airline aims to reduce the risk of objects becoming projectiles during rough flights.

Industry safety experts acknowledge the legitimate concerns about falling objects but question whether targeting laptops specifically addresses the real problem. “Many items stored in overhead bins pose similar or greater risks than laptops,” noted aviation safety consultant Terrance McKenna. “The selective enforcement against electronics seems more about boarding efficiency than comprehensive safety planning.”

Flight attendants, however, have largely supported the change, with union representatives highlighting the reduced risk of injury to crew members who frequently assist with overhead storage during boarding and deplaning.

Part of Larger Baggage Policy Overhaul

The laptop ban is just one element of American Airlines’ comprehensive baggage policy revision for 2025. Other changes include stricter enforcement of carry-on size limits and potentially reduced size allowances for personal items, according to UP Excise Portal.

These modifications appear to follow a trend set by European carriers, which have implemented similar restrictions since September 2024. Industry analysts suggest American Airlines is attempting to standardize its practices to align with global partners and reduce confusion for international travelers.

The policy shift also coincides with the airline’s installation of larger overhead bins in many aircraft, raising questions about the timing and necessity of the new restrictions when more storage space is becoming available.

Business Travelers Express Frustration

The business travel community has voiced strong opposition to the policy change. Corporate travel managers report receiving numerous complaints from employees who rely on laptops during flights and prefer storing them overhead to maintain workspace and legroom.

“This effectively eliminates the ability to work comfortably on shorter flights,” said Jennifer Briggs, president of the Business Travel Association. “When you’re required to store your laptop under the seat, you sacrifice the already limited legroom, making productivity nearly impossible on flights under two hours.”

Several major corporations have reportedly contacted American Airlines directly to negotiate exemptions for their frequent travelers, though the airline has thus far maintained the policy applies universally to all passengers regardless of status level or corporate agreements.

Financial Motivations Questioned

Critics suggest the policy may have financial motivations beyond the stated safety concerns. By limiting what can be stored in overhead bins, more passengers may be forced to check bags that previously would have been carried on, potentially increasing the airline’s revenue from checked baggage fees.

“Airlines worldwide generated over $5.9 billion from baggage fees in 2023,” noted consumer travel advocate Michael Steinberg. “By creating more restrictions on carry-on items, American Airlines may be strategically positioning itself to increase this revenue stream while presenting the change as a safety measure.”

American Airlines has denied these allegations, maintaining that passenger safety and boarding efficiency remain the sole motivations behind the policy update.