Instructions for Using American Airlines In-Flight Internet Connection
American Airlines offers Wi-Fi on almost all of its flights, with costs between $10 and $35 per flight, depending on the length of the flight and the Wi-Fi provider. However, there are several ways for frequent flyers to cut costs or even get free Wi-Fi.
Credit Cards to the Rescue
Certain American Airlines credit cards can help offset Wi-Fi costs. For instance, CitiBusiness® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® Mastercard® holders can charge Wi-Fi purchases and get 25% back, with no cap on savings. Similarly, American Airlines Aviator® World Elite Silver Mastercard® holders get $50 back annually as a statement credit for in-flight Wi-Fi purchases.
The American Express Platinum Card also offers a benefit for cardholders on American Airlines flights, providing free Wi-Fi access to reduce or eliminate Wi-Fi costs. Chase Sapphire Reserve® cardholders can utilize the card's $300 annual travel credit for American Airlines Wi-Fi purchases.
American Express's Airline Fee Credit Terms
It's important to note that American Express relies on airlines to submit correct information for incidental fee purchases to identify eligible purchases. If you don't see a credit for a qualifying incidental purchase on your eligible Card after 8 weeks, you should call the number on the back of your Card.
American Airlines' Wi-Fi Subscription Plans
American Airlines offers a monthly Wi-Fi subscription plan for $49.95 per month or $59.95 per month for a 2-device plan. However, passengers can watch a short advertisement in exchange for 20 or 30 minutes of free Wi-Fi on certain flights.
The Future of American Airlines Wi-Fi
American Airlines has invested heavily in installing satellite-based Wi-Fi on its aircraft. As of March 2024, American Airlines claims the title of first airline to offer video streaming capabilities on its entire mainline fleet. Additionally, the airline is set to roll out the option for AAdvantage loyalty program members to redeem AAdvantage miles for Wi-Fi on certain flights.
Exceptions and Limitations
Wi-fi is available on almost every American Airlines flight, except for two types of small Embraer Regional Jets - specifically the ERJ-145 and ERJ-170. American Airlines doesn't offer free Wi-Fi to elite members, premium cabin passengers, or credit card holders, but the only way to get free American Airlines Wi-Fi is through advertiser promotions or on the American Airlines Landline bus service.
In conclusion, while American Airlines Wi-Fi comes at a cost, several credit cards can help offset these costs, and the airline is continually investing in improving its Wi-Fi services. With the introduction of the option to redeem AAdvantage miles for Wi-Fi and the claim of offering video streaming capabilities on its entire mainline fleet, American Airlines is making strides towards providing a more connected flying experience for its passengers.
