American Airlines is the largest airline in the world, operating nearly 7,000 flights every day to more than 350 destinations. From quick domestic hops to long-haul journeys across oceans, it plays a central role in connecting travelers around the globe.

But flying with American Airlines can feel very different depending on the fare you choose, the route you fly, and the cabin you sit in. 

Some passengers book Basic Economy for the lowest price, while others enjoy lie-flat Flagship Business seats with premium dining and lounge access. Between those extremes, there are multiple options that balance cost, comfort, and flexibility.

On top of that, American Airlines has its own loyalty program, baggage policies, and upgrade rules that can be confusing at first glance. Knowing how these pieces fit together can help you avoid surprises and get the most value from every trip.

This American Airlines guide brings everything into one place. 

You will learn about fare classes, baggage fees, cabins, inflight amenities, the AAdvantage program, upgrade opportunities, customer satisfaction rankings, and tips for saving money. 

By the end, you will know how to book smarter, travel more comfortably, and maximize rewards the next time you fly American.

American Airlines: General Overview

American Airlines is the largest airline in the world. 

As a full-service legacy carrier, it operates thousands of flights each day across a global network. From short domestic routes to premium international journeys, American plays a central role in connecting people and places.

Like Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, American Airlines competes as one of the “Big Three” U.S. airlines. Its scale gives travelers access to more destinations and nonstop routes than many competitors, but it also comes with trade-offs in customer experience and service consistency.

American is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, which allows passengers to book seamless connections and earn miles across partner airlines like British Airways, Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific, and Japan Airlines. 

Through this global network, American can offer access to hundreds of destinations beyond its own fleet.

General Information

• Founded: 1926 (as American Airways)
• Headquarters: Fort Worth, Texas
• Tagline: To care for people on life’s journey
• Alliance: oneworld
• Frequent Flyer Program: American Airlines AAdvantage
• Mission Statement: To provide safe, reliable, and friendly air travel while prioritizing safety, comfort, and convenience
• Daily Flights: Nearly 7,000 (including regional partners)
• Destinations: Over 350 in more than 55 countries
• Main Website: aa.com

Major Domestic Hubs

American Airlines operates one of the largest hub-and-spoke systems in the world. This allows it to funnel passengers through major U.S. airports and connect them to both domestic and international destinations.

Its extensive hub network means that American often has a competitive edge when it comes to nonstop flights, especially on routes from the United States to Latin America and the Caribbean. 

• Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW): The largest American Airlines hub and its central global gateway.
• Charlotte (CLT): Major East Coast hub and connecting point for domestic and Caribbean flights.
• Chicago O’Hare (ORD): Key Midwest hub with both domestic and international coverage.
• Miami (MIA): Gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean, as well as transatlantic service.
• New York City (JFK) and New York City (LGA): JFK focuses on long-haul international routes, while LGA supports frequent domestic connections.
• Los Angeles (LAX): West Coast hub with a mix of domestic, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America service.
• Philadelphia (PHL): Important transatlantic hub with strong service to Europe.
• Phoenix (PHX): Large western hub with a focus on domestic routes and Mexico.
• Washington Reagan (DCA): Focus city for government and business travelers.

Route Network

American Airlines operates one of the most extensive route networks among U.S. carriers. With more than 350 destinations across over 55 countries, it connects major business centers, leisure destinations, and regional airports across the globe.

Its strength lies in a powerful hub system that gives passengers access to nonstop routes throughout North America, as well as key international gateways to Europe, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America. 

This network is especially important in Miami, where American dominates travel to the Caribbean and South America.

Below are some of the key destinations where American Airlines operates the most flights or holds strategic importance:

• North America: Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Charlotte (CLT), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Miami (MIA), New York City (JFK), New York City (LGA), Los Angeles (LAX), Philadelphia (PHL), Phoenix (PHX), Washington D.C. (DCA)
• Europe: London (LHR), Paris (CDG), Madrid (MAD), Rome (FCO), Frankfurt (FRA)
• Asia-Pacific: Tokyo (HND), Tokyo (NRT), Seoul (ICN), Sydney (SYD), Hong Kong (HKG)
• Latin America and the Caribbean: Mexico City (MEX), Cancún (CUN), São Paulo (GRU), Bogotá (BOG), Lima (LIM), Santiago (SCL), San Juan (SJU)

The combination of strong U.S. hubs and high-frequency international routes makes American Airlines one of the most reliable options for travelers who value both domestic convenience and global reach.

Fleet Overview

American Airlines operates the largest commercial fleet in the world, with nearly 1,000 aircraft in service. Its fleet is diverse, ranging from small regional jets to modern long-haul flagships like the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

The airline uses a hub-and-spoke model, with narrow-body aircraft serving most domestic routes and wide-bodies dedicated to transcontinental and international flights. In addition, American Eagle regional partners operate smaller jets to connect passengers to the main hubs.

Like other major carriers, American continues to modernize its fleet with new deliveries from Airbus and Boeing while retiring older, less efficient aircraft. 

Passengers will find a mix of cabins and amenities depending on the aircraft type, with newer planes offering upgraded interiors, better Wi-Fi, and enhanced entertainment.

• Narrow-Body Fleet (Domestic and Short-Haul International)
  • Airbus A319
  • Airbus A320
  • Airbus A321 and A321neo
  • Boeing 737-800 and 737 MAX 8
• Wide-Body Fleet (Long-Haul International and Premium Routes)
  • Boeing 777-200ER and 777-300ER
  • Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 Dreamliner
• Regional Fleet (Operated by American Eagle Partners)
  • Embraer E170 and E175
  • Bombardier CRJ-700 and CRJ-900

Many of the long-haul American Airlines aircraft feature lie-flat seats in premium cabins, larger entertainment screens, and high-speed Wi-Fi. 

On the other hand, some of its older narrow-body jets have been criticized for limited legroom, smaller seats, and a lack of seatback screens, relying instead on streaming entertainment via the American Airlines app.

As the airline continues to invest in fleet renewal, passengers can expect more consistency and comfort, particularly on newer aircraft like the Airbus A321neo and Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

Fare Classes And Seat Types Explained

American Airlines offers a wide range of fares designed to meet different travel needs and budgets. From the lowest-cost Basic Economy ticket to Flagship First international service, each option comes with its own rules, perks, and trade-offs.

Understanding how these fare classes work can help you choose the right balance of price, comfort, and flexibility for your trip.

Basic Economy

Basic Economy is the most restrictive American Airlines fare. It is designed for budget-conscious travelers who want the lowest available price but are willing to accept limitations.

What to Expect:

• One personal item and one standard carry-on included (checked bags for a fee).
• Seat assignment only available at check-in (unless purchased).
• No eligibility for complimentary upgrades.
• Limited change and cancellation options (fees apply in some cases).
• Boarding in the last group (Group 9).

While the price may look attractive, Basic Economy is often best for short trips or when flexibility is not important.

Main Cabin (Economy)

Main Cabin is the standard Economy Class product for American Airlines. It provides more flexibility and benefits than Basic Economy.

What to Expect:

• Seat selection available at booking.
• Eligible for upgrades to Premium Economy, Business Class, or First Class (with miles or cash).
• Checked baggage fees apply on most domestic routes.
• Standard inflight amenities: snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, Wi-Fi for purchase, and streaming entertainment.

Main Cabin Extra And Preferred

Main Cabin Extra and Preferred are upgraded seating options within the Economy Class cabin. They are ideal for travelers who want additional comfort without paying for Premium Economy or higher cabins.

Main Cabin Extra:

• Extra legroom compared to Main Cabin.
• Early boarding in Group 5.
• Overhead bin space reserved.

Preferred Seats:

• Standard seat pitch, but in more desirable locations (front of the plane, exit rows).
• Quicker boarding and deplaning convenience.

Premium Economy

Premium Economy is a newer fare option available on many long-haul international flights. It is positioned between Main Cabin Extra and Business Class, offering a more comfortable experience without the premium price tag.

What to Expect:

• Wider seats with more recline.
• Larger entertainment screens.
• Amenity kit, pillow, and blanket provided.
• Premium dining service with complimentary beer, wine, and spirits.
• Two free checked bags included.

Premium Economy is often considered the best “value upgrade” for international travel.

Business Class And Flagship Business

Business Class is available on both domestic and international flights. Flagship Business is the premium American Airlines international business product, offered on select long-haul aircraft.

What to Expect (Flagship Business):

• Lie-flat seats with direct aisle access.
• Premium dining service.
• Access to Flagship Lounges at select airports.
• Priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling.
• Two free checked bags included.

First Class And Flagship First

First Class is primarily offered on domestic routes and short-haul international flights. Flagship First is the most exclusive American product, available on select international and transcontinental routes.

What to Expect (Flagship First):

• Wider, more comfortable seats with premium recline (lie-flat on select aircraft).
• Multi-course dining and top-shelf beverages.
• Access to Flagship Lounges and Flagship First Dining at select hubs.
• Highest boarding priority and baggage handling.
• Two to three free checked bags included.
• Flagship First is rare, offered only on select Boeing 777-300ER and Airbus A321T aircraft.

Flexible And Fully Flexible Fares

American also offers flexible fare types for travelers who need peace of mind.

• Flexible Fare: Available in Main Cabin, Premium Economy, Business Class, and First Class. Allows changes with reduced or no fees.
• Fully Flexible Fare: Refundable to the original form of payment, with no change fees. Available in Main Cabin, Business Class, and First Class.

These options are best for business travelers or anyone with uncertain plans.

Baggage Fees And Carry-On Rules

The American Airlines baggage policy depends on the fare class, route, and elite status of the traveler. While all passengers are allowed to bring a carry-on bag and personal item for free, most economy travelers will need to pay extra for checked luggage.

Understanding these rules can help you avoid surprises at the airport – and in many cases, there are easy ways to reduce or eliminate fees through elite status or co-branded credit cards.

Carry-On Allowance

All American Airlines fares, including Basic Economy, allow passengers to bring:

Standard Allowance:

• 1 personal item (free): Must fit under the seat in front of you (18 x 14 x 8 inches).
• 1 standard carry-on (free): Must fit in the overhead bin (22 x 14 x 9 inches).

Infant And Stroller Policy:

• Lap infants do not receive their own baggage allowance.
• Strollers and car seats can be checked free of charge.

TPA Pro Tip: American occasionally places seasonal restrictions on checked luggage during peak travel periods, so always check before flying internationally.

Checked Baggage Allowance And Fees

The cost of checked bags varies by route and fare class. Below are the most common fees for Main Cabin tickets.

Domestic United States (including Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, Central America):

• First bag: $35 each way
• Second bag: $45 each way
• Third bag: $150 each way
• Fourth bag and beyond: $200 each way

TransAtlantic (U.S. to Europe):

• Basic Economy: First bag $75
• Main Cabin: First bag often included free, second bag $100
• Premium Economy: Two free bags
• Business Class and First Class: Two to three free bags

TransPacific (U.S. to Asia and Australia):

• Main Cabin: First bag free, second bag $100
• Premium Economy: Two free bags
• Business Class and First Class: Two to three free bags

Oversize And Overweight Bags

• Standard weight limit: 50 pounds (23 kg) for Main Cabin and Premium Economy.
• Business Class and First Class: Up to 70 pounds (32 kg) per bag.
• Overweight fees: $100 – $200 per bag (depending on weight).
• Oversized fees: $200 per bag for bags larger than 62 linear inches.
• Bags over 100 pounds are not accepted.

Status-Based Allowances

American Airlines AAdvantage elite members and oneworld alliance elites receive additional baggage benefits. These allowances can make a big difference for frequent travelers, especially on longer international routes.

American Airlines AAdvantage Elite Members

• Gold: 1 free checked bag (up to 50 pounds on most flights)
• Platinum: 2 free checked bags (up to 50 pounds each)
• Platinum Pro: 3 free checked bags (up to 50 pounds each)
• Executive Platinum: 3 free checked bags (up to 70 pounds each, with priority handling)

oneworld Elite Members

• oneworld Ruby: 1 additional free checked bag on eligible flights
• oneworld Sapphire: 1 additional free checked bag + priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling
• oneworld Emerald: 1 additional free checked bag + access to First Class check-in counters and extra airport privileges

In addition, holders of Citi® / AAdvantage® and Barclays AAdvantage® Aviator credit cards receive one free checked bag for themselves and up to four travel companions booked on the same reservation.

Other Baggage Fees And Add-Ons

• Same-Day Change or Standby: Starting at $50 for Main Cabin (waived for elites on some fares).
• Unaccompanied Minor Fee: $150 plus tax (per one-way trip).
• Pets in Cabin: $150 per kennel (domestic and select international routes).
• Pets as Checked Baggage: $200 per kennel (exceptions apply for Brazil at $150).

Seat Maps And Comfort: What To Expect

The cabin you choose on American Airlines can make a big difference in your comfort and overall travel experience. Seat size, legroom, dining, and entertainment vary widely depending on the fare class and aircraft. 

Knowing what to expect before you book will help you choose the cabin that best fits your trip.

Key Factors That Affect Comfort

• Seat Pitch: The distance between your seat and the one in front of you (determines legroom).
• Seat Width: The distance across the seat cushion (important for shoulder space).
• Seat Recline: How far the seat leans back (affects rest on long flights).
• Location: Seats near the front or exit rows often provide more space and quicker boarding or deplaning.

Main Cabin (Economy)

The standard American Airlines Economy Class product is comparable to other major U.S. carriers, though comfort depends heavily on the aircraft.

Seat Specs:

• Pitch: 30 – 32 inches
• Width: 16.6 – 18 inches
• Recline: 2 – 3 inches

Amenities:

• Complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on flights over 250 miles
• Streaming entertainment via the American Airlines app (seatback screens available on most wide-body aircraft and select narrow-bodies)
• Wi-Fi available for purchase
• Power outlets and USB ports on many modern aircraft

Food and Drink:

• Snacks and soft drinks included
• Coffee, tea, and water available on all flights
• Alcohol for purchase (Beer: $8, Wine: $10, Spirits: $10)
• Fresh food for purchase on flights over 700 miles (charcuterie plates, sandwiches, snack boxes, $9 – $11)

Main Cabin Extra

Main Cabin Extra is an upgraded section within the Economy Class cabin that provides more space and perks.

Seat Specs:

• Pitch: 34 – 36 inches
• Width: 17 – 18 inches
• Recline: 3 – 4 inches

Amenities:

• Group 5 boarding
• Reserved overhead bin space
• Complimentary beer, wine, and spirits on most flights
• Streaming entertainment and Wi-Fi access

Premium Economy

Premium Economy is offered on long-haul international routes and provides a step up from Main Cabin.

Seat Specs:

• Pitch: ~38 inches
• Width: 18 – 19 inches
• Recline: 6 inches

Amenities:

• Wider seats with adjustable headrests and footrests
• Larger entertainment screen with noise-reducing headphones
• Amenity kit, pillow, and blanket
• Two free checked bags included

Dining:

• Multi-course meals with enhanced entrée options
• Complimentary beer, wine, and spirits

Business Class / Flagship Business

Business Class varies by route, but the Flagship Business product is one of American’s strongest offerings on international and premium transcontinental flights.

Seat Specs (Flagship Business):

• Fully lie-flat seats with direct aisle access
• Bed length: 76 – 81 inches when fully flat
• Width: ~21 inches

Amenities:

• Multi-course premium dining service
• Bang & Olufsen noise-canceling headphones
• Premium bedding, amenity kit, pillow, and blanket
• Access to Flagship Lounges at select airports
• Two free checked bags included

First Class / Flagship First

American offers two versions of First Class: a domestic product and the rare Flagship First, available only on select long-haul and transcontinental routes.

Domestic First Class:

• Wider seats with greater recline
• Complimentary hot meals on flights over 900 miles
• Premium snacks and beverages on shorter flights
• Dedicated flight attendant for the cabin

Flagship First (International):

• Lie-flat seats with added space and privacy (some featuring swiveling designs)
• Exclusive access to Flagship First Dining at DFW, JFK, LAX, and MIA
• Three free checked bags included
• Highest boarding and baggage priority

Upgrades And Elite Perks

American Airlines offers several ways to move into a higher cabin, whether through complimentary elite benefits, mileage redemptions, or paid upgrades. 

For frequent flyers, upgrades are one of the most valuable perks of the AAdvantage program.

Complimentary Upgrades for Elites

AAdvantage elite members are eligible for complimentary upgrades on many flights within the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.

Eligible routes:

• Domestic flights within the U.S. (excluding Basic Economy).
• Short-haul international flights to nearby regions.

Upgrade Priority Order:

• Elite status level (Executive Platinum > Platinum Pro > Platinum > Gold).
• Loyalty Points earned within status level.
• Fare class purchased (higher fares clear first).
• Time of request.

Upgrades may move passengers from Main Cabin or Premium Economy to Business Class or First Class, depending on the aircraft and route. Complimentary upgrades to Flagship Business or Flagship First are extremely rare and generally not included.

Mileage Upgrades

AAdvantage miles can be used to upgrade a purchased ticket to the next cabin.

What to Expect:

• Pricing is route- and cabin-dependent, starting around 5,000 – 15,000 miles plus a cash co-pay for short domestic routes.
• International upgrades are more costly, often requiring 25,000+ miles and a higher co-pay.
• Not all fare classes are eligible – discounted Basic Economy and some lower Main Cabin fares cannot be upgraded with miles.

Mileage upgrades can offer good value on long-haul international routes, especially when moving from Premium Economy to Business Class.

Cash Upgrades

American Airlines also sells upgrades directly for cash. These offers often appear:

• During online booking.
• In the American Airlines app under “My Trips.”
• At check-in or at the gate if premium seats remain open.

Pricing varies by cabin and route, but last-minute offers can provide excellent value compared to booking a premium fare outright.

Systemwide Upgrades (Executive Platinum Only)

Executive Platinum members earn systemwide upgrades (SWUs) as part of their Loyalty Choice Rewards. 

These can be applied to almost any paid fare, including long-haul international flights, making them one of the most powerful elite perks in the program.

Same-Day Flight Changes And Standby

• Same-Day Change: Starting at $50 for Main Cabin (waived for Platinum Pro and Executive Platinum).
• Same-Day Standby: Complimentary for all passengers, but elites receive higher priority.

TPA Pro Tip: To maximize your chances of clearing an upgrade, try booking routes that are less business-heavy (like leisure-focused destinations) and check load factors in advance. Executive Platinum members with high Loyalty Point balances generally enjoy the best upgrade success rates.

Lounges And Airport Experience

American Airlines invests heavily in enhancing the airport experience, offering exclusive lounges, priority services, and elevated check-in options for premium cabin passengers and elite members.

These perks can make a major difference during long layovers, international trips, or busy travel days.

American Airlines Admirals Clubs

American Airlines operates over 50 Admirals Club lounges worldwide, giving travelers a space to relax, work, or recharge before their flight.

• Membership: Annual membership starts at around $750, or travelers can redeem AAdvantage miles for access.
• Credit Card Access: Complimentary entry is included with the Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®. Day passes can also be purchased for approximately $79.
• Amenities include:
  • High-speed Wi-Fi and workstations
  • Complimentary snacks, light meals, and non-alcoholic drinks
  • Full-service bar with complimentary house beer, wine, and spirits (premium selections available for purchase)
  • Showers and relaxation areas at select international hubs

TPA Pro Tip: Unlike Delta Air Lines, American still sells single-use day passes, which can be a good option if you don’t want to commit to full membership.

Flagship Lounges

The American Airlines Flagship Lounges provide an elevated experience for long-haul international and premium transcontinental passengers.

• Locations: Currently available at New York City (JFK), Miami (MIA), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Chicago (ORD), and Los Angeles (LAX).
• Features include:
  • Restaurant-style dining and premium buffet options
  • Full-service bars with top-shelf liquor, wine, and champagne
  • Shower suites and quiet rooms
  • Spacious seating areas with power outlets and workstations
• Access: Reserved for Flagship Business and Flagship First passengers, as well as oneworld Emerald and Sapphire elites flying on qualifying itineraries.

Flagship First Dining

An exclusive restaurant-within-a-lounge concept, Flagship First Dining is only available to Flagship First passengers.

• Locations: Currently offered at New York City (JFK), Miami (MIA), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), and Los Angeles (LAX).
• Features: Multi-course, chef-curated meals, premium wines, and craft cocktails in a private dining environment.

oneworld Lounge Access

As a member of the oneworld alliance, American Airlines passengers gain additional lounge benefits when traveling internationally.

• oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members (including AAdvantage Platinum and Executive Platinum) receive access to partner lounges worldwide when flying internationally.
• Partner Lounges include Qantas Lounges in Sydney (SYD), Cathay Pacific Lounges in Hong Kong (HKG), and British Airways Lounges in London (LHR).
• Benefits often include:
  • Complimentary food and beverages
  • Premium seating and quiet areas
  • Wi-Fi and business centers
  • Priority check-in and boarding services

American Airlines AAdvantage Loyalty Program Snapshot

The AAdvantage program is the frequent flyer loyalty program of American Airlines. Launched in 1981, it was the first program of its kind and has since grown into one of the largest in the world. 

Members can earn miles, Loyalty Points, and elite status benefits by flying American, booking with partners, or spending on co-branded credit cards.

Unlike some competitors, AAdvantage offers a mix of dynamic pricing for American-operated flights and a fixed award chart for many partner airlines. This makes it possible to find excellent value redemptions, especially on oneworld alliance partners for long-haul travel.

How To Earn American Airlines AAdvantage Miles

Members can earn miles in several ways:

• Flying American Airlines: Miles are earned based on the fare paid and elite status level.
• Partner Flights: Earn miles on oneworld airlines such as British Airways, Japan Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Cathay Pacific.
• Credit Card Spending: Citi® and Barclays AAdvantage® credit cards earn miles on everyday purchases, with bonuses on American flights and select categories.
• Shopping and Dining: Use the AAdvantage Shopping portal or AAdvantage Dining program to earn miles at thousands of retailers and restaurants.
• Everyday Partners: Earn miles through hotel stays, car rentals, and other travel partners.

Loyalty Points: Earning Elite Status

In 2022, American replaced its old system of elite-qualifying miles and dollars with Loyalty Points. This streamlined approach means almost every eligible activity – from buying a ticket to spending on a credit card – earns Loyalty Points that count toward elite status.

Status Tiers:

• Gold (40,000 Loyalty Points): 1 free checked bag, Group 4 boarding, priority standby.
• Platinum (75,000 Loyalty Points): 2 free checked bags, Group 3 boarding, priority upgrades.
• Platinum Pro (125,000 Loyalty Points): 3 free checked bags, complimentary domestic upgrades.
• Executive Platinum (200,000 Loyalty Points): 3 free checked bags up to 70 lbs, highest upgrade priority, and Loyalty Choice Rewards.

Loyalty Benefits

• Elite members enjoy a wide range of perks that can make travel more seamless:
• Free checked bags (1 – 3 depending on status).
• Priority check-in, security, and boarding.
• Complimentary upgrades on eligible flights.
• Waived same-day standby fees.
• Lounge access for certain tiers when flying internationally (via oneworld status).

How To Redeem American Airlines AAdvantage Miles

AAdvantage miles can be used for more than just flights, though award tickets offer the best value.

Redemption Options:

• Award Flights on American: Prices are dynamic, based on demand and cash fares.
• Partner Award Flights: Fixed award chart on oneworld and other partners – often the best value for international Business Class and First Class.
• Upgrades: Use miles to move from Main Cabin to Premium Economy, Business Class, or First Class on eligible fares.
• Vacations, Hotels, and Cars: Redeem for packages, hotels, or rentals (generally lower value).
• Everyday Rewards: Gift cards and other merchandise (lowest value, not recommended).

TPA Pro Tip: American Airlines AAdvantage miles are often best spent on oneworld alliance partners, where award charts still provide strong value. For example, a one-way Business Class flight from the U.S. to Japan on Japan Airlines can be booked for as few as 60,000 miles.

American Airlines AAdvantage Co-Branded Credit Cards

American Airlines offers several co-branded credit cards through Citi and Barclays. These cards integrate directly with the AAdvantage program, making it easier to earn miles, Loyalty Points, and elite status benefits.

Citi® AAdvantage® Cards

• Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®
• Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
• Citi® / AAdvantage Business™ World Elite Mastercard®
• American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® Card

Barclays AAdvantage® Aviator Cards

• AAdvantage® Aviator® Red World Elite Mastercard®
• AAdvantage® Aviator® Business Mastercard®

Customer Satisfaction, Reviews, and Safety

American Airlines is the largest airline in the world by fleet size and passengers carried, but its reputation among travelers is mixed. 

While frequent flyers value its vast network, competitive loyalty program, and upgraded premium cabins, customer reviews often highlight inconsistencies in service and reliability.

Strengths Mentioned By Travelers

Passengers often note these positive aspects of flying with American Airlines:

• Extensive domestic and international network, with nonstop flights to many destinations competitors do not serve
• Strong oneworld alliance partnerships, enabling global connectivity
• Competitive premium products such as Flagship Business and Flagship First on international routes
• Admirals Club and Flagship Lounge network providing solid lounge access for elites and premium cabin travelers
• AAdvantage program flexibility, with multiple ways to earn and redeem miles

Common Complaints By Travelers

Like many large carriers, American also faces frequent criticism:

• Inconsistent inflight service, with variations depending on crew and aircraft
• Aging aircraft in some domestic fleets, leading to comfort and reliability concerns
• Lower customer satisfaction scores compared to Delta Air Lines and Alaska Airlines
• Additional fees for seat selection, checked baggage, and upgrades on many economy fares
• Comparatively lower on-time performance in U.S. Department of Transportation reports

Customer Ratings From Major Sources

• Skytrax Expert Rating: 3 stars (out of 5)
• Skytrax User Rating: 2 / 10 (heavily mixed reviews)
• Tripadvisor: 3.0 / 5.0 (average from 80,000+ reviews)
• Kayak: 7.2 / 10 (based on customer feedback, with moderate scores for amenities and service)
• AirHelp.com: 8.0 / 10 (strong score for compensation handling and global coverage)

Safety and Operational Performance

American Airlines holds a 7 / 7 safety rating from AirlineRatings.com. This score reflects its compliance with international safety audits, U.S. government oversight, and a strong safety record over recent decades.

Operationally, American ranks in the middle of U.S. carriers for on-time performance. According to the latest Air Travel Consumer Report, American canceled less than 1% of flights in late 2024, but its delays were more frequent than Delta Air Lines and Alaska Airlines.

Philanthropy And Charitable Partnerships

American Airlines supports a variety of community programs across the globe. Its efforts include:

• Education: Scholarships and support for youth through the American Airlines Education Foundation.
• Health and Wellness: Longstanding partnership with the Susan G. Komen Foundation to raise awareness and fund breast cancer research.
• Military and Veterans: Year-round initiatives for service members, veterans, and families, including Honor Flight programs.
• Environmental Responsibility: Commitment to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and investments in sustainable aviation fuel.
• Disaster Relief: Partnerships with the American Red Cross and other organizations to provide emergency aid and transport.

Final Thoughts

American Airlines is one of the largest and most influential carriers in the world.

With a vast network, a wide range of cabins from Basic Economy to Flagship First, and strong global partnerships through the oneworld alliance, it provides options for every type of traveler.

The airline does face challenges, including mixed customer service reviews and inconsistent inflight products on older aircraft. However, its strengths in premium cabins, lounge offerings, and loyalty program flexibility make it a powerful option for both business and leisure travel.

For frequent flyers, the American Airlines AAdvantage program and its path to elite status through both flying and credit card spending offer excellent opportunities to unlock more value. 

Perks such as lounge access, complimentary upgrades, and priority services add up quickly for those who engage with the program.

American may not always deliver the lowest fares or the smoothest experience, but it continues to invest in modernization, sustainability, and service improvements. 

For travelers who plan ahead, understand the fare classes, and take advantage of the AAdvantage program, flying American Airlines can be rewarding, comfortable, and convenient.

Fly prepared, and you will fly better with American Airlines.

Kevin Zanes