American Airlines is elevating the onboard experience on short-haul flights. The company is committed to offering passengers a service aligned with its mainline operation, incorporating improvements in connectivity, cabin design, comfort, and onboard services.
Starting this fall, a gradual rollout of refurbished interiors will begin on its regional aircraft, which will be combined with fast Wi-Fi and power outlets at every seat. The goal: to ensure every journey, regardless of duration, maintains the consistency and comfort customers expect.
Internet Connection at All Times
American currently has high-speed satellite Wi-Fi on nearly 300 regional aircraft. The airline plans to expand this connectivity to its entire two-class regional fleet by early 2026, more than any other US company.
Furthermore, starting in January, AAdvantage members will be able to enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, a step that reinforces the strategy of offering a uniform digital service across the entire network.
Heather Garboden, American’s Director of Customer Experience, emphasized: “Our customers value staying connected in the air, even on relatively short flights. We have worked consistently to ensure our regional fleet offers the best and most reliable high-speed connectivity, especially with an eye towards complimentary Wi-Fi in 2026.”
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Modern Cabins and More Practical Seating
Newly delivered Embraer 175 and Bombardier CRJ900 aircraft already feature a clean, modern cabin design. The seat upholstery reflects the style of the airline’s mainline aircraft, emphasizing visual consistency.
Another new feature is the addition of individual power outlets, allowing mobile or laptop devices to remain charged throughout the journey.
The modernization will progressively extend to the CRJ700, CRJ900, E170, and E175 aircraft operated by its regional subsidiaries.
Uniform Service Across the Network
American has also unified its onboard snack offering. Premium cabin passengers on regional flights will now have a consistent service throughout the day: snack baskets in the morning, afternoon, and evening, replicating what is already offered on its mainline operation.
Likewise, AAdvantage members can use their miles to pay for onboard purchases on all flights, an option that reinforces customer loyalty.
More Space for Carry-On Luggage
Considering those who prefer to travel with carry-on luggage, American is working with Embraer on developing larger overhead bins for larger regional aircraft. These improvements, to be implemented in the coming years, aim to streamline the boarding process and offer more comfort to frequent travelers.
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