American Airlines Officially Launches Feature Customers Have Begged For

Don’t worry about downloading that movie you wanted to watch before boarding an American Airlines flight. 

The company announced this week it has officially added free high-speed wireless internet to more than 2 million of its flights per year for members of its loyalty program.

Here are more details. 

Long Time Coming  

The company previously announced plans to expand free wi-fi to AAdvantage members last month. 

Now it is reality as the company celebrates its 100-year anniversary. 

“We’re setting the standard for connectivity in the skies,” said Heather Garboden, who serves as chief customer officer for American, in a press release. 

She noted free high-speed internet is more than a perk but rather an essential aspect of travel today. 

“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.”

How Are They Doing It? 

According to AA, the company has more satellite-equipped aircraft than any other carrier in the world. That includes more than 900 planes with service via Viasat or Intelsat. 

They will continue to be the sources as the free program expands to all loyalty club members while  AT&T is the name sponsor. 

“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,” AT&T EVP and GM for mass markets Jenifer Robertson said in a press release. “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.”

All of American’s narrow body and dual-class regional fleets offer free high-speed internet while the company’s new Boeing 787-9 and 787-8 aircraft will be getting the service as well. 

This expansion of wi-fi offerings comes as the company seeks to appeal to premium customers.

“We’re excited to be a premium global airline. We believe that’s where the demand trends will go,” American Chief Financial Officer Devon May said earlier this month during a speech at a Goldman Sachs investor conference.