American Airlines News

Maybe five years ago, it would have been bad news if an airline decided not to add in-seat screens. But times change, and many passengers prefer to watch content on their own screens. This is not a big deal.

With basic economy soon available on American, Delta, and United, it's worth comparing the pros and cons of each fare. American's may be good for elite travelers while Delta's is best for those with baggage.

New details on how frequent flyers will upgrade on flights with premium economy leaked this week. For once, the news is good for almost everyone.

As happened with United, this story will probably go viral, and consumer groups will whine about not having access to bin space. But remember, the market has spoken: Frontier and Spirit charge for bin space, and yet passengers fly them. Why should American and United not sell similar products?

$5.1 million is not a lot of money for a giant global airline, but for US Airways — and later American — this was always about more than money. The airlines argue that firms like Sabre have long held too much power.

Strategic and smart budget travelers could once keep up with the business class flyers in the rewards earning world. That world has changed now.

The good news is that Internet speeds on American Airlines will improve markedly. The bad? This will take "years," according to an airline spokesman. So travelers should be patient.

Anyone who thought the three new online travel agency leaders — Jane Sun, Glenn Fogel, and Mark Okerstrom — intended to be mere caretakers of their predecessors’ policies and legacies would have been mistaken. To a large degree, they are stepping out into new territory.

American's premium economy cabin becomes official on April 2 though its incorporation is raising as many questions as it is answers.

American, United, and Delta are all introducing no-frills fares to try to thwart Frontier, Allegiant, and Spirit. It might work, or it might not. But it's worth a shot. The Big 3 do not want any of the discount airlines to grow to be as large and powerful as Ryanair.