This U.S. Airline Is Trialing Free Wi-Fi—Here’s What You Need to Know

American Airlines is taking a step forward in enhancing its customer experience by exploring the expansion of its in-flight connectivity. The airline will pilot the new service on three routes: Charlotte (CLT) to Raleigh Durham (RDU), Charlotte (CLT) to Jacksonville (JAX), and Miami (MIA) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD).

“We are deeply committed to improving every aspect of our customers’ travel journey with the creation of our new Customer Experience organization, led by Chief Customer Officer Heather Garboden," the airline stated in a release to Travel + Leisure. "In today’s world, staying connected while flying is essential, and through this limited-time complimentary Wi-Fi trial, we’re looking to enhance our high-speed Wi-Fi offerings to remain competitive and meet the needs of our customers.”

Currently, American Airlines offers free Wi-Fi with texting and streaming for T-Mobile customers on domestic flights. Other limited Wi-Fi packages start at $10 per flight, while frequent flyers can opt for full Wi-Fi access through monthly subscriptions starting at $49.95.

This move by American Airlines is aimed at competing in a market where other airlines have already introduced similar services. United Airlines announced in January that it will roll out free Wi-Fi, powered by Elon Musk's Starlink, for its MileagePlus members as early as spring. Two years ago, Delta Airlines began offering free Wi-Fi on most domestic (and some international) flights for SkyMiles members and recently expanded its in-flight services with a deal involving DraftKings and a streaming partnership with YouTube.

American Airlines has not yet provided a timeline for fleet-wide implementation of the new Wi-Fi service.