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American Airlines operates the largest network in North America, but this scale hasn't exactly translated into the same financial success as its closest rivals. United Airlines and Delta Air Lines have pulled ahead in profitability, placing American under pressure to compete for the travel industry's most valuable customers.
Instead of trying to win passengers over through low fares, the airline is leaning into creating a more ambitious identity that CEO Robert Isom described as a "premium global airline." The carrier has now revealed a series of major investments that are designed to attract higher-spending travelers and close the multibillion-dollar gap with United and Delta.
Here's what American has planned and how it could change passengers' flight experience.
American Airlines Is Falling Billions Behind Delta And United
According to American Airlines' 2025 financial results, it generated a record $54.6 billion in revenue but only $352 million in adjusted pretax income. By comparison, Delta Air Lines reported $5 billion in adjusted pretax income, while United Airlines reported $4.6 billion. This means that American is more than $4 billion behind each of its largest U.S. competitors. The airline now believes it can close that gap.
2025 Airline Adjusted Pretax Income:
CEO Robert Isom said during the J.P. Morgan Industrials Conference back in March that the airline’s progress would begin with running a reliable operation, especially during severe weather and other disruptions. Just last week, American experienced disruptions due to severe thunderstorms at DFW.
"We know that there's nothing more important to our customers than having a flight that gets them to where they want to go on time. … It starts with making sure that we deliver on the fundamentals, that we deliver a reliable operation, something that they can depend on, something that they can really write home about that they're proud of," he said.
However, improving reliability is only one part of the transformation. American is also preparing to make the travel experience more appealing to customers willing to pay extra, with some of its most noticeable changes expected to begin before passengers board.
Bigger Lounges And Upgraded Cabins Will Target High-Spending Travelers
American’s effort to attract higher-spending passengers will begin on the ground. In a recent news release, the airline announced plans for its largest-ever Admirals Club. The 37,000-square-foot lounge will be located near the Skylink station in the redesigned Terminal C at Dallas–Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).
There, passengers can enjoy areas for working and relaxing, as well as chef-inspired meals, more all-day food selections, and a premium beverage program.
"We’re making significant investments in the future of our largest hub at DFW, with our customers at the heart of every decision. From major expansions to transformative enhancements, we’re making travel through DFW even more seamless, comfortable, and convenient," said American’s Senior Vice President of DFW Operations Jim Moses.
Travelers will also soon see an additional lounge option at DFW's future Terminal F. The airline is working on adding a Provisions by Admirals Club lounge that provides grab-and-go food, drinks, and other essentials for passengers with limited time.
Additionally, eligible premium customers leaving from Terminal D will gain access to American's first Flagship check-in area at DFW later this year. This private space will provide individual assistance and access to security screening.
American would also like more passengers to pay for an upgraded experience once they board. CNBC reports that the carrier plans to introduce refreshed interiors on its Boeing 777-300ERs, 787-8s, and 777-200s. The carrier is also adding aircraft equipped with its Flagship Suite, a business-class seat with a privacy door, added storage, and the ability to recline into a lie-flat bed.
American hopes to increase the number of lie-flat seats on its international aircraft by more than 50% by the end of the decade.
Although premium travelers undoubtedly benefit the most from these updates, it is unclear whether the airline has planned any future upgrades for main cabin passengers. TheTravel reached out to American Airlines for more information but did not receive a response before publication.
American Airlines Passengers Could See More Long-Haul Routes
American's plan to catch up to its competitors, Delta and United, may eventually give passengers more destination choices. CEO Robert Isom told CNBC that the carrier plans to place another wide-body aircraft order before the end of 2026 and that "Airbus could play a big role."
Furthermore, during American's annual shareholder meeting, Isom said, "We currently have an RFP in the market and are actively engaging with both Airbus and Boeing as we evaluate our next order for wide-body aircraft."
For passengers, a larger wide-body fleet could eventually mean additional international routes, more frequent service, or newer aircraft replacing American’s oldest planes. However, even after an order is finalized, travelers shouldn't expect new aircraft right away. Deliveries likely wouldn't begin until the early to mid-2030s.
In the meantime, American Airlines is focusing on turning its new premium offerings into a consistent experience that passengers think is worth the money. With its competitors already ahead, there's a lot riding on the success of this strategy.
