American Airlines. Photo: Markus Mainka / Shutterstock.com American Airlines is preparing one of its biggest upgrades to the onboard experience, with plans to add seatback entertainment screens to every seat on its narrowbody fleet while significantly increasing the number of premium seats.
The airline says the changes are designed to give passengers more comfort, entertainment and connectivity on flights across its domestic and international network.
"We're making one of the most significant investments in the onboard experience in our history," said Heather Garboden, American Airlines' Chief Customer Officer .
One of the biggest changes will be the expansion of premium seating. American currently has premium seats on about 25% of narrowbody departures, but expects that figure to rise to approximately 40% in the coming years.
The airline is adding more First Class seats by retrofitting existing Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft. The changes will add an additional First Class row to those aircraft.
New aircraft will also arrive with larger premium cabins. American's upcoming Boeing 737 MAX 10 aircraft are planned to feature 24 First Class seats, while the Airbus A321neo fleet will be reconfigured to include additional First Class seating.
Passengers flying in Main Cabin Extra will also have more options. American plans to retrofit most of its narrowbody aircraft to increase the number of seats offering extra legroom, earlier boarding, dedicated overhead bin space and a complimentary beverage.
The refreshed aircraft interiors will also feature redesigned seats, additional storage and improved lighting.
For passengers who prefer to watch movies or TV rather than use their own devices, American is bringing back a more extensive seatback entertainment experience across its narrowbody fleet.
Starting in 2028, all new Airbus and Boeing narrowbody aircraft deliveries will feature seatback entertainment screens at every seat. Existing aircraft will also be retrofitted.
The new system will feature large-format displays, 4K picture quality, expanded entertainment options and personalized recommendations.
Passengers will be able to choose from movies, television programs, music and games, while enhanced flight maps will provide destination information and real-time flight details.
Each seat will also have a USB-C fast-charging port. Bluetooth connectivity will allow travelers to pair wireless headphones and earbuds directly with the entertainment system.
American plans to install the new screens as quickly as possible, with the entire fleet expected to receive the technology by the early 2030s.
The airline already offers seatback entertainment on more than 140 long-haul aircraft.
The entertainment investment is part of a broader effort by American to improve the passenger experience both onboard and at airports.
The airline plans to begin installing Starlink high-speed Wi-Fi on narrowbody aircraft in 2027, adding faster connectivity alongside the new entertainment systems.
American is also investing heavily in its airport lounges, including new and expanded Flagship and Admirals Club locations. The airline has introduced upgraded food and beverage offerings, including Champagne Bollinger and Lavazza coffee.
Digital improvements are also being rolled out across the travel journey, covering everything from booking and baggage tracking to arrival.