As one of the largest and most prominent airlines in the United States, American Airlines has an extensive network of routes. They provide thousands of flights every day, with over 350 destinations to more than 60 countries. Their vast presence at some of the biggest airports in the world makes it possible to provide connecting flights all over the world, meaning they can usually get you where you want to go. 

American Airlines isn’t just about its global network—they also provide services that meet the needs of all types of travelers. From competitive economy prices to their prestigious first-class seating options, American Airlines has it all. Customers can benefit from the AAdvantage program, which allows them to accumulate miles and rewards as they fly. It’s no surprise that many people choose American Airlines for international travel!

In this article, we’ll review American Airlines’ international flights in detail. From breathtaking destinations to your personal experience at the airport and onboard the flight, we’ve done all the research so you don’t have to. Plus, we’ll provide you with some tips on how to save on international flights without sacrificing comfort. If you’re planning an international trip with American Airlines, you’ll want to keep reading!

Explore American Airlines International Destinations

Where can you go with American Airlines? The better question is, where can’t you go?

American Airlines has ten different hubs. These airports are stop-over points that help get passengers to their final destination. If you’re flying internationally with American Airlines, you’ll likely pass through one of the following hub airports.

  • Charlotte, North Carolina (CLT)
  • Chicago, Illinois (ORD)
  • Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas (DFW)
  • Los Angeles, California (LAX)
  • Miami, Florida (MIA)
  • New York (JFK, LGA)
  • Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (PHL)
  • Phoenix, Arizona (PHX)
  • Washington, D.C. (DCA)

In addition to these hub cities, American also has several focus cities. These locations prioritize local flights rather than focusing on connections. 

  • Las Vegas (LAS)
  • Orlando (MCO)
  • Denver (DEN)
  • Atlanta (ATL)
  • Boston (BOS)
  • San Francisco (SFO)

International travelers have plenty of routes to choose from, with many hubs and focus cities offering direct flights to international airports all over the world. There are too many to list here, but the most popular destinations abroad include:

Whether you’re headed to Europe, Mexico, the Caribbean, or even the Pacific, you can likely find a non-stop American Airlines flight to get you there from one of the hub cities. 

Make the Most of Your Airport Arrival

Flying American Airlines in business or first class gives you a more comfortable travel experience. You get access to exclusive lounges, additional baggage allowances, priority services, and so much more. Let’s look at each of these aspects as you plan for your pre-flight experience. 

Lounges

Admirals Club Lounge: The Admiral Club is a luxurious lounge with complimentary snacks, drinks, shower suites, a business center, and personalized travel assistance—what more could you want? The amenities depend on the location, but American Airlines is constantly improving its Admiral Lounges to meet travelers’ demands. 

To access the Admirals Club, travelers need to purchase an annual membership or one-day pass. Additionally, memberships are a perk of being a Citi/AAdvantage Executive World Elite Mastercard cardholder. 

There are over 50 Admiral Club locations worldwide. Check out the directory on the American Airlines website to locate them. 

Flagship Lounges: American Airlines customers flying Flagship First or Flagship Business Plus have access to these exclusive lounges. They give travelers premium perks, such as a cocktail bar and wine table, shower suites, and sit-down dining. 

You can find Flagship Lounges in four different locations:

  • Chicago (ORD)
  • Dallas Fort Worth (DFW)
  • Los Angeles (LAX) 
  • Miami (MIA)

Eligible Flagship customers also get access to the American Airlines First Class Lounge in London (LHR). 

Luggage Allowance

All customers can carry on one bag and a personal item, such as a backpack. But the number of complementary bags you can check depends on your ticket status. 

Premium economy and business customers get two free bags on international flights. Meanwhile, Flagship First and Flagship Business Plus customers can check up to three free bags. 

There are also other ways to get your bags checked free on American, such as signing up for a credit card that partners with the airline. 

While being an AAdvantage card member gets you a free bag on domestic flights, you’ll have to have at least Gold status to get a free bag on an international flight. Be sure to check the baggage information specific to your status and destination to know your baggage allowance. 

Priority Check-In 

Most airports offer priority check-in to members who pay extra for it or those traveling in premium economy, business, or first class. AAdvantage members and American Airlines cardholders can also benefit from this faster check-in. This service may also allow you to buzz through security lines. 

Flagship First Check-in: This is an exclusive area where customers can check in, receive personal assistance, and access expedited security. You’re eligible to use this service if you are flying in Flagship First or Flagship Business Plus on an international flight.

Not very many airports offer Flagship First Check-in at the moment, but there are locations at these four major hubs: 

  • Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
  • Miami (MIA)
  • Los Angeles (LAX)
  • London Heathrow (LHR)

Priority Boarding

American Airlines boards according to groups. The lower your group number, the quicker you’ll be able to board the plane. 

Group 1 includes first class passengers and business class passengers on planes with just two classes. On most international flights, business passengers board with Group 2 since there tend to be three classes. 

If you’re traveling on business, you may be able to board with Group 4 if your company has an active American Airlines Corporate Travel Agreement. All AAdvantage members board with Group 6, but you may be able to board sooner if you have Gold status or higher. 

American Airlines Onboard Experience: What To Expect  

Once you’re onboard, the main event begins! Many of the perks of flying business and first class start now. Here’s what you can expect depending on the class of ticket you purchased. 

Main Cabin Fares

Basic Economy: This is the cheapest fare on any flight. Passengers flying basic economy must pay a fee to select their seat or one will be randomly assigned to them. 

Regular Main Cabin: Passengers who choose the main cabin fare can select their seats for free. 

Main Cabin Extra: If you pay for a spacious seat in the main cabin, you’ll have the obvious perk of more legroom during the flight. American Airlines also lets passengers in Main Cabin Extra board with Group 5, which is a nice bonus.

Premium Economy

These are the seats behind business and first class. There are clear benefits to this fare, including:

  • Wider seats
  • Premium meals and beverages
  • Travel essentials and sleep kit
  • Larger monitors for entertainment
  • Noise-canceling headsets

Business

Business class seats are the best available on shorter international flights, such as those with destinations to Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada, and some South American cities. Passengers with this fare enjoy:

  • More legroom and wider seats
  • Complementary Wi-Fi
  • Free pillows and blankets
  • Premium food and wine
  • Wireless streaming 

Flagship Business: An elevated service is available on business class flights to Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, and some destinations in South America. One of the best things about Flagship Business is the lie-flat seats that ensure passengers are comfortable. In addition to great seats, passengers in this class enjoy:

  • Multi-course meals with fine wine
  • In-flight entertainment, including live TV
  • Exclusive wireless headphones 
  • An amenity kit and sleep set
  • Complementary Wi-Fi

First 

Regular first class is only available on domestic flights. On international routes, those who want to fly first class must purchase a Flagship First ticket. 

Flagship First: Just when you thought Flagship Business couldn’t get any better, Flagship First comes along. This fare is the most exclusive one American Airlines offers, and the benefits abound. In fact, there are only eight seats in this class per flight (on the Boeing 777-300). 

Passengers get a lie-flat seat that is even wider than those offered in Flagship Business class. In addition to great seats, Flagship First brings all the great dining, entertainment, and exclusive amenities like duvets and slippers. 

Tips for Booking American Airlines International Flights

Flying business or first class is a luxurious experience, and it’s even better if you can find these fares at an affordable price. Here are some strategies for flying in style at a fraction of the cost. 

  • Plan Ahead. Searching and booking your fare in advance can help you get better seats at a better price. Airlines tend to release schedules and fares 10-12 months before the departure date. 
  • Sign Up for Fare Alerts. You can’t monitor the prices of your desired fare 24/7, but you can subscribe to alerts. Many third-party companies, including Google Flights, offer this service. If the price falls to your desired range, you can snag your ticket quickly. 
  • Use Fare Comparison Tools. Search engines and fare comparison websites allow you to find the best deal out there. You may be surprised to learn that the airline doesn’t always have the best price. 
  • Consider Off-Peak Travel. Jet-setting during off seasons is a lot more affordable, and you’re much more likely to get the seats you want. 
  • Be Flexible with Dates. Sometimes even a few days can make a huge price difference. If possible, consider altering your departure and return dates.
  • Explore Nearby Airports. The airports you choose to fly to can also change the price drastically. Smaller airports tend to be more expensive, but this isn’t always the case. Compare different airports if possible to see which is the best deal during your travel dates.
  • Join Loyalty Programs. American Airlines has some generous offers for AAdvantage members, especially those who travel frequently. Members can redeem miles for upgrades and discounted flights.

American also partners with several credit card companies, usually awarding free bonus miles upon sign-up. Those miles are sometimes enough to book a Flagship Business or First Class ticket to an international destination.

  • Consider Business Class Experts. Business Class Experts can help you get the best price on Business and First class seats. We work with American Airlines and their partners, such as British Airways and Air Canada, and can get more affordable rates than you see online. We can even get you last-minute Business Class deals! 

Trust Business Class Experts With Your International Flights

American Airlines international flights are a great choice for travelers, no matter their budget or destination. Of course, better fares make traveling much more comfortable and enjoyable. From the time you get to the airport until you pick up your baggage, choosing tickets in business and first class has so many perks. 

Now that you know all that American Airlines flights have to offer, you’re probably antsy to book your next trip with the best fare possible. You don’t have to break the bank on first class flights— just use Business Class Experts. We can help you find the best deal on the seat you want, no matter your destination!