American Airlines Bringing Back Seatback Screens on Domestic Flights
American Airlines is making a major change to its domestic cabins, announcing plans to bring back seatback entertainment screens across its U.S. fleet.
The airline spent much of the past decade removing screens from Boeing 737s and Airbus A320-family aircraft, instead relying on passengers to stream entertainment to their own phones, tablets and laptops. American began removing TVs from domestic aircraft in 2017, arguing at the time that travelers increasingly preferred their own devices.
Now the airline is reversing that strategy as part of a broader investment in its onboard experience, which will also include more premium seating.
American says it plans to install the new displays as quickly as possible, although completing the rollout across the domestic fleet isn’t expected until the early 2030s. The airline says that passengers can expect:
- Industry-leading screen sizes: Among the largest displays offered on narrowbody aircraft in North America with large-format premium displays.
- 4K technology: Brilliant color, contrast and clarity for immersive viewing in the sky.
- Expanded content and partnerships: Access to a broad selection of movies, TV, music, games and content with the opportunity to introduce new experiences and partnerships.
- Personalized entertainment experience: Tailored movie and show recommendations and interactive, enhanced flight maps with destination information and real-time flight insights.
- USB-C fast charging ports: Convenient power at every seat to keep devices charged throughout the journey.
- Bluetooth audio connectivity: Seamless pairing with customers’ personal wireless headphones and earbuds at every seat.
The change also brings American more in line with competitors. Delta, United and JetBlue have continued investing in seatback entertainment, making built-in screens an increasingly common feature on U.S. flights.
