AA Bets on Premium Turnaround, but Culture and Global Reach Remain Key Hurdles
American Airlines is pursuing a premium-focused turnaround under CEO Robert Isom to close its profit gap with Delta and United, including cabin refurbishments, bigger Admirals Club lounges, and expanded loyalty and higher-end seating. The plan appears more cohesive than in the past, but critics say there’s no clear timeline, and success hinges on tougher culture change and a bolder international network strategy—areas where rivals already have an edge and where improvements won’t happen overnight.
