American Airlines has announced it will offer free in-flight Wi-Fi to AAdvantage loyalty programme members on more than two million flights annually starting January 2026, in partnership with AT&T.
The move is part of a wider push to enhance the customer experience, allowing travellers to stay connected in the air without paying extra, whether for work, entertainment, or keeping in touch with friends and family.
By the time the programme launches, around 90% of American’s fleet will be able to provide high-speed satellite connectivity from Viasat and Intelsat. This will make American Airlines the domestic leader in complimentary in-flight Wi-Fi access.
“Our customers greatly value staying connected while in the air,” said Heather Garboden, chief customer officer at American Airlines. “Together with AT&T, we’re proud to offer that connectivity at no cost to our most loyal customers.”
The complimentary Wi-Fi will be exclusively available to members of the AAdvantage loyalty programme, which the airline has positioned as central to its customer strategy. American says it is also on track to equip over 500 regional aircraft with high-speed Wi-Fi by the end of 2025.
The announcement comes shortly after Garboden stepped into her new role, signalling a renewed focus on digital convenience and elevating the in-flight experience across all stages of travel.
“People want to be connected everywhere, all the time,” said Jenifer Robertson, EVP & GM Mass Markets at AT&T. “We’re proud to partner with American Airlines to make that possible even at 35,000 feet.”
The airline recently tested the free Wi-Fi offering on select flights and reported performance that exceeded expectations.