Air Wisconsin operates as a regional carrier, primarily under American Eagle (until April 2025) and previously as United Express, with baggage policies tied to the operating partner. Below is a summary of the baggage policy based on available information, focusing on the most recent American Eagle operations and noting variations for United Express where relevant.
Carry-On Baggage
Allowance: Passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (e.g., small backpack, purse, or laptop bag).
- Size Restrictions (American Eagle): Carry-on must not exceed 22 x 14 x 9 inches (including handles and wheels) to fit in the overhead bin or under the seat. Personal items must fit under the seat.
- Size Restrictions (United Express): Carry-on must be within 22 x 14 x 9 inches (56 x 35 x 22 cm), and personal items within 17 x 10 x 9 inches (43 x 25 x 22 cm). Basic Economy passengers are restricted to only one personal item, with no carry-on bag allowed.
Notes:
- No maximum weight is specified for carry-on baggage, but it must be manageable to fit in designated spaces.
- On United Express flights, Basic Economy restrictions may lead to gate-checking carry-ons, with a $25 gate handling fee plus applicable checked bag fees.
- Regional aircraft may have limited overhead bin space, potentially requiring larger carry-ons to be gate-checked at no extra cost (green-tagged and placed in cargo).
Checked Baggage
Allowance:
American Eagle:
- First checked bag: $40 (domestic flights), with a $5 discount if paid online.
- Second checked bag: $45 (domestic). Fees vary for international flights.
- Up to 10 bags allowed on domestic flights, with restrictions on international routes (e.g., 5 bags for Mexico, Caribbean, Central/South America, and Brazil).
United Express:
- Economy: Up to 50 lbs (23 kg) per bag.
- Business/First Class (United Business, United First, Polaris): Up to 70 lbs (32 kg) per bag.
Standard Size and Weight:
- Maximum dimensions: 62 inches (157 cm, length + width + height).
- Maximum weight: 50 lbs (23 kg) per bag unless otherwise specified (e.g., 70 lbs for premium classes on United Express).
Excess Baggage Fees:
- Additional bags (3 or more): $85–$95 per bag.
- Oversized Baggage:
- American Eagle: Bags over 62 inches (up to 65 inches) incur a $30 fee (post-April 17, 2024).
- United Express: Fees vary; check United’s policy for specifics.
- Overweight Baggage:
- Bags 51–70 lbs: Additional fees apply (American Eagle, post-April 17, 2024).
- Bags over 99 lbs are not accepted.
- Fees are cumulative (e.g., an oversized and overweight bag incurs both fees).
Special Items
Sporting Equipment: May be counted as standard checked bags but could incur oversized/overweight fees based on size/weight. Contact Air Wisconsin or the operating partner for specifics.
Pets:
- Dogs, cats, and household birds (domestic U.S. flights only) can be carried onboard for $125 one-way ($200 for international). The pet carrier counts as a carry-on and must fit under the seat.
Fragile/Bulky Items: Items too fragile or bulky for checking can be carried onboard by purchasing a seat (cabin-seat baggage).
Baggage Issues
Lost/Delayed/Damaged Luggage:
- Report issues immediately at the Air Wisconsin Baggage Service Office in the airport.
- Provide flight details, baggage claim ticket, and luggage description.
- Track delayed baggage via services offered by Air Wisconsin or the operating partner.
- Keep all documentation (receipts, claim forms) for compensation claims and follow up regularly.
Compensation: Review Air Wisconsin’s or the operating partner’s policies (e.g., American Airlines or United Airlines) for compensation guidelines.
Important Notes
Operating Partner Policies:
- Air Wisconsin is transitioning to charter and Essential Air Service flights after ending its American Eagle agreement (April 3, 2025).
- For flights before April 3, 2025, follow American Eagle policies (via American Airlines’ website). For earlier United Express flights, refer to United Airlines’ baggage policy.
- If a flight involves multiple carriers, the most restrictive baggage policy may apply.
Verification: Policies and fees can vary by route, date, or operating partner. Always check directly with Air Wisconsin (https://www.airwis.com) or the operating carrier (American Airlines or United Airlines) for the latest details.
This summary reflects the most consistent information available. Since Air Wisconsin’s operations are shifting to charter services, future baggage policies may differ.
