In a significant move to enhance passenger experience, American Airlines announced that beginning in January 2026, it will offer free high-speed inflight Wi-Fi to members of its AAdvantage loyalty program. This initiative, developed in partnership with AT&T, will be available on approximately 90% of the airline’s fleet equipped with Viasat and Intelsat satellite technology.
The airline has already begun testing this service on select routes, particularly those originating from Charlotte, North Carolina, its second-largest hub. These trials have reportedly exceeded expectations, paving the way for a broader rollout.
This move aligns with a growing industry trend where major U.S. carriers are enhancing inflight connectivity. Delta Air Lines began offering free Wi-Fi to its SkyMiles members in 2023, and United Airlines plans to introduce free satellite internet using SpaceX’s Starlink system later this year.
American Airlines’ decision to provide complimentary Wi-Fi underscores its commitment to improving the inflight experience for its customers, ensuring that staying connected while traveling becomes a seamless and accessible service.