American Airlines is deciding on new long-haul planes to replace aging 777-200ERs by the 2030s, with options including Boeing 787 and Airbus A350 models.
American Airlines nears decision on new aircraft
American Airlines is close to deciding on its future long-haul aircraft, with plans to replace its 47 Boeing 777-200ER planes in the 2030s. The carrier is considering a range of wide-body aircraft, with needs potentially reaching up to 70 planes, though no confirmed orders or timelines have been set yet.Executive describes decision stage
Nat Pieper, American Airlines’ commercial director, told FlightGlobal that the process is at the "seventh or eighth inning," a baseball reference meaning the discussions are in an advanced stage. He said the choice "could swing either way," leaving the outcome uncertain.Expectation of agreement in months
Information published on October 20 suggests that discussions continue over a broad scope. According to View from the Wing, which reported statements from Pieper to Cranky Flier, the executive anticipated an agreement in the coming months, with aircraft deliveries starting in 2030. A possible announcement could come with the release of quarterly results.Focus on replacing older aircraft
The priority is replacing the 47 Boeing 777-200ER planes, which American Airlines has operated since 1999. These planes are older than the 777-300ER, introduced in 2012, and will require a transition over several years. The carrier also plans to modernize cabin configurations, though the extent of the work remains unspecified.Fleet expansion could offer growth
A program covering more than 47 aircraft could provide growth opportunities, though it does not guarantee additional planes. The number of aircraft, retirement schedules, and the capabilities of the chosen models will determine how the fleet evolves.Aircraft under consideration
American Airlines has not officially disclosed the list of aircraft under evaluation. According to View from the Wing, the Boeing 787-9, 787-10, and Airbus A350-900 and A350-1000 are being discussed. However, this list is unconfirmed and should be treated as speculative press information.Operational advantages for Boeing
Boeing has an operational advantage, as American Airlines already operates the 787-8 and 787-9 alongside its 777s. New Dreamliners would integrate smoothly into the airline’s existing pilot and maintenance teams. However, this does not guarantee Boeing’s success in negotiations.Modernizing international fleet
Beyond replacing aging aircraft, this decision is part of a broader upgrade of American Airlines’ international offerings. The airline recently introduced a reconfigured 777-300ER, featuring 70 Flagship Suite business class seats and 44 Premium Economy seats, operating between New York-JFK and Buenos Aires.New configurations on multiple aircraft
The 20 777-300ER planes are being modernized separately from the 777-200ER replacement plan. American Airlines is also deploying its new Flagship Suite on 787-9 aircraft with a premium configuration, signaling a broader effort to enhance its long-haul services.
