American Airlines has begun rolling out free high-speed Wi-Fi across much of its fleet, making the service available on more than 2 million flights a year.
From this month, AAdvantage members can access free satellite-based Wi-Fi on an increasing number of flights, with the service sponsored by AT&T. The airline says the rollout will take place in stages, starting in January and expanding through early spring.
“As American celebrates 100 years of delivering industry firsts, including the first loyalty program and first airport lounge, we’re setting the standard for connectivity in the skies,” said Heather Garboden, American’s Chief Customer Officer. “Free high-speed Wi-Fi isn’t just a perk — it’s essential for today’s travelers. That’s why we’re proud to begin rolling out this new offering, sponsored by AT&T, across the majority of our fleet. Once roll out is completed, every AAdvantage® member can stay connected, stream and share almost anywhere their journey takes them for free.”
The initial phase covers 100% of American’s narrowbody aircraft and dual-class regional jets. By early spring, the airline says free Wi-Fi will be available on nearly every American Airlines flight. The service will also be fitted on the airline’s new Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft.
How passengers connect
Access is provided through the updated aainflight.com portal. Passengers log in using their AAdvantage number and password, then select the free Wi-Fi option. The airline says the portal has been redesigned to improve speed and reliability.
Passengers who are not already AAdvantage members can sign up before flying or during their journey using the inflight portal. Membership is free.
Free Wi-Fi at a glance
Once the rollout is complete:
- All of American’s narrowbody aircraft and dual-class regional jets will offer free high-speed Wi-Fi for AAdvantage members.
- The airline’s Boeing 787-8 and 787-9 aircraft will also have free Wi-Fi.
- The service will be powered by satellite providers Viasat and Intelsat.
AT&T partnership
The free Wi-Fi service is sponsored by AT&T, which already provides business services to the airline.
“At AT&T, connecting changes everything,” said Jenifer Robertson, AT&T’s EVP and GM for Mass Markets. “By sponsoring free inflight Wi-Fi for American Airlines AAdvantage® members, we’re making it easier for people to stay productive, entertained and in touch from takeoff to landing. We’re proud to support this experience for AAdvantage® members, helping redefine what it means to travel connected, all courtesy of America’s best, fastest and most reliable network.”
Building on existing connectivity
American has spent more than a decade expanding inflight connectivity across its fleet. Today, more than 900 mainline aircraft are equipped with high-speed satellite Wi-Fi using Viasat or Intelsat systems. The airline was also the first US carrier to introduce streaming entertainment across its entire mainline fleet.
The airline says the move to free Wi-Fi lays the groundwork for future digital services and onboard personalisation.
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