High gas prices will now force travelers using American Airlines to pay to check their luggage.

Starting June 15, customers will have to pay $15 to check their first bag and $25 for a second bag. The airline is blaming high fuel costs for the charges.

Many travelers at Newark Liberty International Airport say it is ridiculous to charge for the first bag.

?Who travels without a bag? Why would you charge for the first bag and the second bag, rather than just charge for the second bag?? says Antonio Lee, of Newark.

Other travelers say they will probably just switch airlines.

Meanwhile, American Airlines says rising oil prices are adding nearly $3 billion a year to its fuel bill. The airline also says it?s going to slash capacity and retire at least 75 older, gas-guzzling planes. It also plans to lay off thousands of workers.