American Airlines will provide complimentary Wi-Fi onboard starting next year

American Airlines is introducing complimentary in-flight Wi-Fi for passengers who enroll in its rewards program, aligning with the trend of airlines providing free internet access to travelers during their flights.

The free Wi-Fi benefit is accessible to members of American’s AAdvantage Rewards program through a collaboration with AT&T, and registering for the loyalty program is free of charge.

Customers will be able to connect starting in January 2026, American said in an announcement Tuesday.

Heather Garboden, Chief Customer Officer at American Airlines, highlighted the importance customers place on connectivity while flying, whether for socializing, productivity, social media interactions, or entertainment streaming. She emphasized the airline’s commitment to equipping its aircraft with top-notch high-speed Wi-Fi and, in conjunction with AT&T, is delighted to extend these services at no additional cost to its loyal clientele.

The free service will be available on roughly 90% of the airplanes in American’s fleet. As the company begins outfitting its aircraft with the necessary equipment, some routes will begin offering the complimentary wi-fi service in 2025. 

Currently, American charges $10 per flight to get online, but offers internet subscription plans for frequent fliers on both monthly and annual payment plans. 

American is the latest major carrier to offer free Wi-Fi to customers. Last year, United Airlines announced it had struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink Wi-Fi service on flights starting sometime in 2025. 

Delta, the third major airline in the U.S. alongside United and American, already offers free internet service to its customers. Delta’s free wi-fi service requires signing up for its rewards program, similar to the model American Airlines plans to use.