If you're flying with American Airlines, this guide walks you through their cabin types, seat selection options, and other important details to know before departure. We strive to keep this information up to date, but airline policies can change without notice. For the most accurate and current details, we recommend checking directly with American Airlines at www.aa.com.
Airline overview
Airline alliance
American Airlines is part of the Oneworld alliance. The airline code is AA.
Cabin types
American Airlines offers the following cabins on select routes:
Economy class | Main Cabin
Premium economy class | Premium Economy
Business class | Business OR Flagship
Go Ahead Tours cannot request First Class cabin seats.
If you are interested in a cabin upgrade, please visit this article: Requesting a flight upgrade
Economy fare types
American Airlines economy options
| Fare type | What it means | What Go Ahead books | How upgrades work |
|---|---|---|---|
Basic Economy |
Lowest fare with the most restrictions |
❌ We never book this fare |
- |
Main Cabin |
Standard economy ticket |
✔️ This is what we book |
May be able to upgrade to Main Cabin Extra at seat selection |
Main Cabin Extra |
Extra legroom + early boarding |
Not included at booking |
To upgrade further: Requesting a flight upgrade |
Good to know
All of the above are still Economy tickets.
We can only request your cabin, not a specific economy fare type.
Economy fare type upgrades must be handled directly with American Airlines.
Seat selection
When seat selection is available
Seat selection becomes available:
After ticketing (around 30 days prior to departure)
During online check-in (24 hours prior to departure
At the airport
American Airlines typically restricts advance seat selection, and you will likely not be able to choose a seat until your flight is ticketed.
Costs for seat selection
Most seats will require an additional fee for advance selection, which must be paid directly to the airline. These fees vary based on route, fare type, and seat location.
If you choose a seat at check-in and do not change your fare type, you will be able to select a seat for no additional charge.
How to select your seat
You can choose your seat through:
The airline’s website: www.aa.com
The airline’s mobile app
Online check-in
Once your flights are released around 60-80 days prior to departure, you’ll find your 6-character airline record locator in your online account, which you’ll use to access your booking on the airline’s site.
Check-in options
Here’s how you can check in for your flight:
Online check-in: Yes
Opens: 24 hours prior to departure
Other options: Airport kiosk or counter check-in