American Airlines Plans 50% Premium Seat Increase on Long-Haul as Luxury Demand Holds Strong


Skift Take

American Airlines aggressive premium expansion shows how large U.S. airlines are increasingly dependent on customers willing to pay for comfort, even as the broader economy sends mixed signals.

American Airlines is betting big on high-paying travelers, with plans to increase premium seating by 30% across its fleet by the end of the decade, and by 50% on long-haul routes.

“Premium demand has really pulled up through these uncertain economic times,” said Heather Garboden, American’s chief customer officer, at the Skift Aviation Forum in Fort Worth, Texas on Wednesday.

“Even before Covid, we saw younger generations becoming a larger part of our customer base. They're willing to pay more for experiences and differen