American Airlines launching free Wi-Fi on aircraft. Here’s how to get it

American Airlines is officially launching free Wi-Fi onboard its aircraft for members of its loyalty program, AAdvantage.

The Fort Worth carrier, which operates its central hub at DFW International Airport, announced the wireless internet rollout in a statement to The News on Tuesday. The rollout will begin in phases starting this month and will include all of the airline’s narrowbody aircraft and dual-class regional jets, American said, adding that new Boeing 787-9 and 787-8 aircraft will feature free internet too.

American customers who are not already enrolled will need to sign up for an AAdvantage account to access the complimentary WiFi on the carrier’s flights. The program is free and customers can enroll through American’s website.

By early Spring, free Wi-Fi will be available on “nearly every American Airlines flight,” the company said. The service is being offered through a partnership with Dallas-based telecommunications giant AT&T. American first announced its intention to offer free WiFi in April of last year.

“Free high-speed Wi-Fi isn’t just a perk — it’s essential for today’s travelers,” said a statement from Heather Garboden, American’s chief customer officer. “That’s why we’re proud to begin rolling out this new offering, sponsored by AT&T, across the majority of our fleet. Once roll out is completed, every AAdvantage member can stay connected, stream and share almost anywhere their journey takes them for free.”

In total, American has more than 900 mainline aircraft outfitted with high-speed satellite Wi-Fi connectivity through Viasat or Intelsat, the airline said. And American has more satellite-equipped WiFi aircraft than any other airline in the world, it declared. The airline operates one of the world’s largest fleets and took delivery of its 1000th aircraft last year.

What was once a premium service you had to pay extra for, Wi-Fi has become increasingly accessible for air travelers in recent years. American’s competitors United Airlines and Delta Air Lines also offer Wi0Fi to members of its loyalty programs.

Southwest Airlines, which is headquartered at Love Field, began offering free wireless internet to Rapid Rewards members in October through a partnership with T-Mobile. Even smaller carriers like Alaska Airlines are expanding free WiFi offerings for customers this year.

The Dallas Morning News