The battle to win over more premium passengers on the world’s highest revenue route* will take a major turn later this year. American Airlines and British Airways will formally consolidate operations at JFK Terminal 8, with a new suite of lounges and premium check-in area, among other changes.
American Airlines
American to be launch customer for Thales Optiq displays
American Airlines’ upcoming A321XLR and 787-9 aircraft will be the launch platform for the Thales AVANT Optiq displays. These 4K HDR screens, featuring Samsung QLED technology also offer Bluetooth pairing at every seat.
American Main Select focuses on business travelers in economy class
American Airlines plans a revamp of the marketing for its high frequency, business-focused routes in 2022. Along with shedding the “American Shuttle” branding, the carrier will expand what it considers high-frequency business markets and add a new fare type, dubbed Main Select.
American buys into GOL, plans loyalty, codeshare boost
American Airlines will invest $200 million for a 5.2% stake in Brazil’s GOL as part of an expanded commercial partnership. The deal will see the two tie more closely in each other’s primary market, and significantly boost their loyalty program integration as well.
Live TV returns to American Airlines
Live television is back on American Airlines. Driving the return – much as it drove the disappearance last year – is demand for live sports on board.
JetBlue extends London schedule cuts through October
JetBlue’s newly launched service to London will continue to operate at reduced frequencies through October. Gatwick flights will launch as previously planned, but overall flights will be reduced.
Additional details as Connect Airlines pushes for October launch
Connect Airlines still aims to launch this Fall. An updated Department of Transportation filing sheds light on additional details for how the company plans to fill its planes headed to and from Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport downtown.
American reopening Flagship lounges, expanding access
As airlines shuttered lounges across the globe at the onset of the pandemic, many promised to reopen when premium demand returned. American Airlines is ready to make good on that commitment, with its first two Flagship Lounges set to welcome guests again beginning next month.
TikTok flies free on some American Airlines planes
A few months ago it was on the way to being banned in the United States. Now some airline passengers can access it in the sky without paying extra. TikTok will fly free on most of American Airline’s single-aisle fleet, beginning today.
American takes stake in JetSMART, adding ULCC partner in South America
In yet another sign that US carriers are looking past the pandemic recovery process, American Airlines intends to invest in Chilean ULCC JetSMART, expanding its footprint in South America. JetSMART is a portfolio airline of Indigo Partners.