Airline vs airline · Checked October 29, 2026
American vs Delta: baggage rules compared
Carry-on, personal item, checked bag and check-in deadlines for American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, from each airline's own website.
The short version
- The carry-on limits are about the same size on American and Delta.
| American | Delta | |
|---|---|---|
| Carry-on size | 22 x 14 x 9 in / 56 x 36 x 23 cm | 22 x 14 x 9 in / 56 x 35 x 23 cm |
| Carry-on weight | No published limit | No published limit |
| Carry-on on the cheapest fare | Included | Included |
| Personal item | 18 x 14 x 8 in / 45 x 35 x 20 cm | No size published, must fit under the seat |
| Checked bag size | 158 cm (62 in) in total | 157 cm (62 in) in total |
| Checked bag weight | 23 kg (50 lb) per bag in economy, 45 kg (100 lb) max for any bag | 23 kg (50 lb) per bag in economy, 45 kg (100 lb) max for any bag |
| Online check-in opens | 24 hours before | 24 hours before |
| Bag drop closes | 45 min before (domestic / short-haul), 60 min before (international / long-haul) | 45 min before (domestic / short-haul), 60 min before (international / long-haul) |
| At the gate by | 15 min before | 15 min before |
| Power banks | Standard 100 Wh / 160 Wh rules | 2 (up to 100 Wh each); in-flight use: allowed except taxi, take-off and landing; no recharging it on board |
Carry-on that fits both
22 x 13.8 x 9.1 in (56 x 35 x 23 cm)
The smallest limit on each side
Personal item that fits both
Under the seat
One airline doesn't publish a size
Flying both on one trip? The trip checker shows which airline sets each limit, and the gate card keeps the rules on your phone.
Will your bag fit?
Measure with wheels, handles and pockets included. The order of the sides doesn't matter.
Questions people ask
Is the American carry-on bigger than Delta?
The carry-on limits are about the same size on American and Delta.
What carry-on size fits both American and Delta?
A bag no bigger than 22 x 13.8 x 9.1 in (56 x 35 x 23 cm) fits both carry-on limits. Check weight limits too.