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American Airlines elevates regional flights with new comforts

By Mark Reif Sep 30, 2025 10:39 AM

American Airlines Embraer E175 — American Airlines Embraer E175 Wikimedia Commons / Wikimedia Commons

While regional aircraft offer vital connections via short flights, they don’t typically have the comfort and amenities of larger planes. American Airlines, operator of the largest domestic regional fleet, is looking to change that by upgrading the interiors of its regional aircraft. Starting this autumn, passengers will notice revamped interiors on regional jets, with power and Wi-Fi throughout the cabin.

American continues rolling out fast Wi-Fi

American now offers high-speed satellite Wi-Fi from gate to gate on almost 300 regional aircraft. That’ll grow to include the entire dual-class regional fleet by early 2026. That’ll happen as the airline rolls out free Wi-Fi for AAdvantage members in January. The carrier’s new Bombardier CRJ900 and Embraer E175 aircraft will feature contemporary design and seat covers that are similar to the mainline fleet. Besides the updated appearance, every seat offer power for laptops, phones, and tablets. American will also retrofit aircraft flown by its regional carriers, including the E170, E175, CRJ900, and CRJ700.

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“Our customers value staying connected in the air, even on a relatively short flight,” said Heather Garboden, American’s Chief Customer Officer. “We’ve been working diligently to ensure our regional fleet offers the best and most reliable high-speed connectivity, especially as we look ahead to free Wi-Fi in 2026.”

Those who travel with carry-on luggage can look forward to more overhead space, as American works with Embraer to devise new storage solutions. That includes more spacious overhead bins, which the airline plans to debut in the years ahead. Passengers will enjoy not only more space but a more seamless boarding process.

Mark Reif is a storyteller focused on the intersection of outdoor culture, travel, and design. From the peaks of Banff to the… Read Full Bio

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