American Airline

American Airline

American Airlines (AA).

"The greatest flyers in the world fly American."

American Airlines was named 'Airline of the year' by Air Transport World (ATW), 2017. It is one of the most prestigious international airlines in the globe. The renowned airline is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. It operates a wide network of domestic and international flights, as well as regional partners. It is known for being the biggest airline in the world.

About American Airlines

American Airlines has a reputation for being one of the most well-known aviation brands in the world. The loyalty program and other benefits are well-known and loved by frequent flyers. American Airlines offers almost everything a frequent flyer could need, thanks to its large presence and many partners.

It took a long time to become the world's biggest airline. American Airlines' humble beginnings date back to 1926. American Airlines was just a name that could be used to refer to many independent small carriers. Robertson Aircraft Corporation and Colonial Air Transport combined their fleets of approximately 80 small planes in 1930 to create American Airways. The airline was a huge success and grew quickly. American Airlines (AA), the second-largest airline in the world, was established in 1961. Aeroflot, Russia's only other carrier, was third.

Over the next 90-years, American Airlines merged several airlines with it. This included US Airways in 2015. This amazing American Airlines history made it the world's biggest airline. It still holds that title today. American Airlines currently serves 350 destinations around the globe and has a fleet of more than 900 aircraft.

A Brief History of American Airlines

American Airlines (AA), one of the most well-known airlines in the world is founded by a group of over 80 small airlines in 1930. Charles Lindbergh flew the first American Airlines flight in 1926. From St. Louis, Missouri, the craft transported mail to Chicago, Illinois. After 8 years of mail routes, the airline started to shape itself into what it is today. American founder C.R. Smith created the DC-3, which revolutionized the airline industry. Smith, who collaborated with Donald Douglas. American Airlines (AA), which was acquired by US Airways in 2013, decided to keep its original name due to its international reputation. This merger created the world's largest airline, not only in the United States, but worldwide.

The Current Hubs of American Airlines

American Airlines, the largest airline in the world, is a hub for 9 US cities and 10 US airports. American Airlines Group is the parent company and has its headquarters in Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport, Texas. American Airlines is the largest airline in the world, with 917 aircraft and flying to more than 350 destinations. Let's learn more about American Airlines hubs. There are many of them, as you can see below.

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport

Charlotte Douglas International Airport

Chicago O'Hare International Airport

Los Angeles International Airport

Miami International Airport

John F. Kennedy International Airport

La Guardia Airport

Philadelphia International Airport

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

American Airlines transports passengers to these destinations in large numbers and from all over the globe. American Airlines is the largest US airline to Cuba in terms of passenger traffic. American Airlines is the only US airline that offers flights to Brasilia (Bahamas), Barranquilla and Belo Horizonte.

What are some of the benefits of flying American Airlines.

• American Airlines offers a variety of services to destinations in Europe, South America, Australia, New Zealand, and the Caribbean.
• American Airlines flights depart on a daily basis throughout the week. You can fly to many destinations at affordable prices.
• Flying with the airline's First or Business class allows you to access a private lounge as well as priority boarding, luggage handling and priority boarding.
• American Airlines is one the largest airlines in the world, offering flights to both domestic and international destinations, including South America, Australia and the Caribbean.
• All Main Cabin passengers are entitled to complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic drinks onboard.
• American Airlines seats are more reclined, and there's more legroom in the Main Cabin.
• The in-flight entertainment system includes music, games and the most recent movies.

American Airlines Flights at the Best Price

We have data on more than 8,000 markets, where you live, and we've analysed over 1.3 billion trips. To find the best time for American Airlines flights, use our when-to-buy tool.

American Airlines Inflight Experience

American Airlines offers basic economy, main cabin, main cabin extra, premium economy, business, first, flagship business and flagship first class depending on the route and aircraft. American Airlines Fare Classes Explained provides more information.

• Flying Dining

All flights include complimentary snacks and beverages. Passengers in Economy have the option to purchase a larger snack box and alcoholic beverages. Premium Economy Business and First-class passengers receive hot meals and complimentary beverages.

• Charging stations for USB and power

You may be able to charge your devices with USB and power adapters depending on what aircraft you are flying.

• Entertainment

American offers free in-flight entertainment, although it varies from aircraft to aircraft. While some aircraft may have video screens in their seats, most passengers flying in Main Cabin can expect "Personal Device Entertainment" which allows you to stream content to your phone, tablet, or laptop. There are hundreds of movies available.

Fleet

American Airlines currently operates 873 mainline aircraft and has over 200 aircraft in order. This includes the Airbus A321neos and A321XLR.), Boeing 737 MAX and Boeing 787-8s. More than 80% of all air-crafts are narrow-bodies. These include the Airbus A320 series and the Boeing 787-800 Series. This is the largest fleet anywhere in the world. The airline started to evaluate its fleet at the beginning of the global crisis and decided to retire older and less efficient aircraft.

Airbus narrow-bodies are included in the American Airlines fleet. They include Airbus A319 and Airbus A320. Airbus A321. These include 133 A319s and 48 A320s. 218 A321ceos are also available. 28 A321neos are also available.

• Airbus A319s can seat 128 passengers. There are eight seats in first class, 24 extra-legroom economy and 96 standard economies.
• The A320s can accommodate 150 passengers and include 12 first-class seats, 18 economy seats with extra legroom, and 120 economy seats.
• Airbus A321s can seat 181 passengers. 16 are in first class, 36 are in extra-legroom economics, and 129 are in standard economy.
• American's newest Airbus aircraft is the A321neos. It can seat 196 people. There are 20 seats for first class, 47 extra-legroom economy and 129 standard economy.
• Boeing's narrow-bodies-and-wide-bodies fleet includes Boeing 737-880s, Boeing 737 MAX 8, Boeing 777-220Ers, Boeing 777-3000Ers, Boeing 787-8s, Boeing 787-9, and Boeing 777-2300Ers.
• Boeing 737-800s are undergoing cabin densification, increasing the number of seats from 160 to 172. Each plane can carry 16 passengers in first class, and 30 extra-legroom coaches. The 160-seat planes come with 114 standard economy seats while the 172-seat model has 126.

Boeing 737 MAX 8 seats 172 passengers in the same layout and configuration as the 737-800.

Boeing 777-200ERs can seat 273 passengers and include 37 in "Flagship Business," 66 in extra-legroom economics, and 146 for standard economy.

The Boeing 777-300ERs can seat 304 passengers and are the only wide-bodies that offer a "Flagship First” class with eight seats. The 52 "Flagship Business", 28 premium economy seats and 28 extra-legroom coach chairs follow. There are also 188 standard economy seating.

Two configurations of Boeing 787-8s are available. The first variant can seat 234 passengers and has 20 "Flagship Business", 48 extra-legroom, and 28 premium economy seats. It also offers 138 standard economy seats. There is room for 226 in the other version, with 28 in business and 55 in extra-legroom economies, and 143 in standard economics.

The Boeing 787-9 seats more passengers, allowing for a maximum of 285 passengers. These include 30 in "Flagship Business", 21 in premium economy and 34 in extra-legroom economics, and 200 in standard.

Cabin

American Airlines is a leading airline that offers a wide variety of aircrafts. They offer 8 cabin classes based on 8 ticket class options.

Flagship First

This exclusive, personal experience is only available to long-distance travelers on Boeing 777-300 planes. It's only available for passengers flying international flights between the U.S., Asia, Australia, Europe and South America. Flagship First passengers enjoy exclusive and priority privileges at check-in and lounge, dining, and five-star services throughout the journey, including connection, arrival, check-in and in-flight. Flagship Suite seats on a Boeing 777 300 are fully lie-flat and have aisle access. This allows you to arrive refreshed. Additional amenities and services are available in addition to luxury and convenience.

Flagship Business

Flagship Business tickets give you access to premium amenities and services on international flights between America, Asia, Australia, Europe and New Zealand. These include transcontinental flights between Los Angeles (LAX), New York (JFK), San Francisco (SFO), LAX – Miami (MIA), JFK (Orange County (SNA), and LAX (LAX). Only available for A321T aircraft. American Airlines offers Flagship Business on selected flights between the U.S. continental and Hawaii. Only available on planes with lie-flat seats. Each seat is completely flat so that you feel refreshed upon arrival. This cabin class offers passengers a multi-course meal, paired with award-winning wines from the James Beard Foundation.

First

This class offers the best service and speed on all flights in the United States. First class passengers are able to quickly check-in and secure their boarding passes at the airport. They can also get checked bags at the landing gate. First class seats are 38 inches in pitch and 21 inches in width, providing more legroom. Julian Barsotti, a Dallas chef and restaurateur, creates premium dining options in First.

Business

For shorter international flights between the U.S., Bermuda, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and selected South American cities, Business class is a great choice. This class is for flights to and from South America on aircraft that do not have lie-flat seats. Priority privileges remain for passengers. They have more legroom due to a wider seat (lie flat seat, 21 inches in width), premium dining, and other five-star air services.

Premium Economy

Premium Economy tickets include special amenities such as seats behind Flagship(r), First, or Business. These aircraft are available for purchase. More will be added soon: 777-335s, 787-8s (flying to Alaska and internationally), 787-9s as well as A330-200s, 777-200s, and 777-200s. Priority on the ground is still available: get through security, check-in and boarding quickly at the airport. You can also get your checked bags before you arrive at the airport. These seats have more legroom, wider leather seats and adjustable foot and head rests.

Main Cabin Additional

Main Cabin Extra class seats can be found in Main Cabin. They are available on all flights and subject to availability. Main Cabin Extra passengers are the first to board after Preferred Group 5 members. They also have easier access to overhead bins. You can relax at boarding and have more space to stretch out at Main Cabin's front.

Main Cabin

Main Cabin allows you to choose your seat free of charge when you book or purchase a preferred seat at a better location. For a fee, you can bring one personal item and one bag onboard. You can bring snacks and soft drinks on board for no extra charge.

Basic Economy

This class is the cheapest among American Airlines classes. Although there are restrictions, you can still enjoy a comfortable seat inside the Main Cabin. You will also receive snacks, soft drinks, and entertainment in-flight.

Baggage

Carry-on baggage & Personal item

Personal items such as a purse or handbag should fit under your seat. Your item should not be larger than 18x14x8 inches (45x35x20 cm).

Your personal items or carry-ons don't include diaper bags, soft-sided cooler bags with breastmilk, baby safety seats, strollers, and other medical or mobility devices.

Carry-on requirements

• Maximum dimensions should not exceed 22x14x9 inches/56x36x23 centimetres (including handles)
• You must be able to fit into the sizer at airport

You may have to check your belongings if they don't fit under the seat or in the overhead bin. You may have additional restrictions on carry-on bags at airports and on airplanes.

In case of an emergency, label your carry-on in the same manner as you label checked bags.

Soft-sided garment bags with a length of 51 inches/130 cm (length + width + Height) can be used as carry-on items.

You can also carry musical instruments as a carry-on. They must be placed in the overhead bin, under the seat or in the trunk.

Checked Baggage

• The class of travel determines the allowance for checked baggage. See below for more information:
• First class: 3 bags complimentary on aircraft with 3-cabins; 2 bags on aircraft with 2-cabins
• Business: 2 free bags
• Premium Economy: 2 bags included with your purchase.
• Main Cabin: 2 bags (charges might apply).

Special Baggage

Special items are subject to rules, exceptions, and packing instructions. All items are limited in weight and size to 100 lbs/45 kgs (some exceptions may apply). Contact a freight forwarder if your equipment exceeds these allowances. Bag fees are non-refundable. They apply per person. Bag fees may be applicable to overweight and/or excessively sized persons.

Reward Programme – Promo

American Airlines offers a frequent flyer program called AAdvantage(r). You can earn miles on American, oneworld(r), and other participating airlines as well as more than 1,000 partners as a member to the AAdvantage(r). You can then use your miles to purchase upgrades, vacations and car rentals, as well as other retail products. There are four levels of this reward program: Executive Platinum, Platinum Pro, Gold and Platinum Pro. Each level has different requirements and benefits.

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Basic Economy fares cannot be refunded or changed for flights that originate in North America, South America, and some countries in Asia. No change fee is applicable for flights that originate outside North and South America. However, you might owe an additional ticket price. Tickets are not transferable and only valid for the purchased flight. Except for a few exceptions, fees paid for seats cannot be refunded.

Based on the class of ticket purchased (from Main Cabin or higher), you can request a refund or a coupon.

American Airlines Boarding Procedures

American Airlines states that most flights board between 30 and 50 minutes before departure. However, this varies depending on the destination and plane. The ground crew will give you a seat if yours is empty. You will not be allowed to board once the gate is closed.

Children under 2 years of age can board at the gate early for families.

Senior travelers can also request early boarding if they need additional time or assistance. To request early boarding, you must identify yourself to the gate agent.

American Boards by Numbered Group, 1-9, Once Pre-boarding Passenger are onboard the plane

Concierge Key members

First Class: Group 1

Active-duty military

AAdvantage Executive Platinum

Two-class business class international plane

Group 2: Advantage Pro

Oneworld Emerald

A 3-class plane for business

Group 3: Advantage Gold

Oneworld Sapphire

Group 4: Advantage gold

Oneworld Ruby

Air Pass

Premium Economy

Citi / Advantage Executive cardmembers

Priority Boarding was purchased by travelers

Eligible corporate travelers

Group 5: Main Cabin Additional (exclusive Basic Economy)

Members of AAdvantage Credit Card are eligible

Group 6: AAdvantage members

Group 7: Group 7

Group 8: Group 8

Basic Economy to/from Europe & South America

Group 9: Basic Economy in the U.S.A, Canada, Central America and Mexico

American Airlines: Flying with Children

Every ticketed customer has the right to one stroller and one vehicle seat. All strollers over 20 lbs must be checked at ticket counter. Before boarding, all other strollers must be checked at the gate. Only one stroller or car seat can be checked at the gate if you have both.

American Airlines: Flying with pets

American Airlines allows you to bring one pet kennel on board. You must pay the carry-on fee. Your pet will stay in the kennel while you are away and remain under the seat. For flights between the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, the fee for a carry-on pet is $125 (based upon specific country's entry policies).

Your pet must be transported with American Airlines Cargo if it is too big to fly in the cabin. American Airlines Cargo does not accept pets that are larger than a standard checked pet. This is because American only allows checked pets to be with active-duty U.S. Military personnel and U.S. State Department Foreign Service personnel on official orders. The pet carrier must also meet all kennel requirements for checked-pets. These requirements must be met before your pet can travel. There are restrictions and fees.

What are American Airlines' AAdvantage Miles?

American Airlines AAdvantage points are the currency of its loyalty program. Members can earn AAdvantage points by flying with American Airlines, shopping with partners, or making purchases using co-branded American Airlines credit card. You can redeem AAdvantage miles for flight upgrades, gift cards or Admirals Club memberships. We recommend that you save your miles for redemption on American Airlines or its Oneworld partners.

American Airlines is a member of the Oneworld Alliance and you will have access to all 13 partner airlines. This means that you can travel with many different airlines via the Oneworld Alliance as well as other non-alliance partners.

You can fly to all the airlines with your AAdvantage points

American Airlines is currently a member of the Oneworld Alliance. Oneworld is an alliance made up of 13 airlines. It allows travelers to share their frequent flyer miles and status with other Oneworld partners. British Airways, Cathay Pacific and Finnair are the 12 other airlines that make up the Oneworld Alliance.

American Airlines has other non-alliance partners. These include Air Tahiti Nui, Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air, Cape Air, China Southern Airlines, Etihad Airways, Fiji Airways, Hawaiian Airlines, Interjet, and Seaborne Airlines.

To redeem your AAdvantage points, you don’t have to transfer any miles to any of the listed airlines. American Airlines allows you to search for and book partner airline flights directly from the website. This makes it super easy to book flights for partner airlines and eliminates all complications.

You can book a flight with AAdvantage miles by visiting AA.com. Make sure you click "Redeem Miles" after entering your airports and dates.

American Airlines AAdvantage miles expiration

American Airlines' AAdvantage Mile Expiration Protocols are somewhere in the middle. Miles expire after 24 month of account inactivity. American's 12-month expiration is much more generous than Frontier's 6-month deadline. However, when you consider that Delta Air Lines miles and Alaska Airlines miles don't expire, 24 month seems a bit stingy.

You still have options if your miles are about to expire. To keep your miles valid, you can fly with American Airlines or any of its partner airlines.

If you don't plan to travel, there are many ways that your account can be kept active and extended. How to prevent American Airlines miles expiring

• Flying or purchasing with an AAdvantage partner or American Airlines at least once per 24 months to earn or redeem miles, as well as participating hotels, car rental companies and co-branded credit card, telecommunication providers, dining, and shopping. These 30+ ways you can earn American Airlines AAdvantage Miles are just a few of the many.
• Cardholders of AAdvantage cards are exempt from the 24-month expiration. After closing an account, your miles expire after 4 months or 24 months, depending on the date you closed it.
• A reactivation fee of $25 can be paid to activate up to 500,000 expired miles from AAdvantage within 24 months. The number of miles that you want to reactivate will determine the cost. These miles will not count towards elite status.
• The normal expiration rules do not apply to AAdvantage members younger than 21 years old.

How soon can American Airlines close my AAdvantage account

Your account won't be closed just because your miles expire. American Airlines must complete several things in order to close your AAdvantage Account.

The airline can terminate your account if you have zero miles or have more than 36 months without earning or redeeming any points.

Your account will be open as long as you meet the minimum requirements.

FAQs

• How do I ask American Airlines a question?

All customers will have a pleasant experience with us. You can contact us online if you have any questions or need to make special arrangements. To connect to the National Relay Service for assistance for hearing and speech impairments, dial 711

• Are you required to pass a Covid screening in order to board American Airlines international flights

To fly internationally, you must prove that you have met all international travel requirements. Upload negative COVID-19 results, vaccine records, and other information to the American Airlines app.

• American Airlines will refund any flight cancelled

If your trip was cancelled, you’ll be allowed to redeem the value of your unused ticket and seat payments towards a future trip. We will send you an email with all the details you need to rebook your trip. It's taking longer because we have so many refund requests.

• What is the average hold time on American Airlines?

24 Hour Hold

If you book 7 or more days before departure, you may be able to hold your reservation for up to 24 hours.

• How long does it take for American to board?

Boarding ends 15 minutes before departure. We may assign your seat to another passenger if you are not present on board. Once the doors close, you will not be permitted to board. Before you plan your trip, make sure to review our suggested arrival and check-in times.

• What time will American Airlines allow you to check-in?

Check-in times

Check-in can be done online or via the app starting up to 45 minutes prior to departure (90 for international). You must arrive at the airport in a specified time to check-in and bag your bags.