American Airlines CEO lays out his vision to close a more than $3 billion profit gap - CNBC

What the report says

CNBC reported that American Airlines CEO Robert Isom is outlining a plan to narrow a profit gap with larger-earning rivals United Airlines and Delta Air Lines. The Fort Worth-based carrier operates about 6,500 daily flights this year, but CNBC said United earned roughly $3 billion more than American last year, while Delta made nearly $5 billion more. Isom told CNBC the company’s long-term objective is to close the margin gap, though he did not give a deadline.

According to CNBC, American’s strategy includes improving operational reliability, expanding premium cabins, refreshing long-haul aircraft interiors, investing in lounges and strengthening its loyalty program. Executives said the airline is weighing a new wide-body aircraft order from Boeing or Airbus, potentially as soon as this year. The company is also remodeling cabins across its fleet, with updates planned for Boeing 787-8 Dreamliners and revamped Boeing 777-300ER interiors expected to debut soon.

CNBC reported that American is trying to win more revenue from travelers willing to pay for higher-end seats, lounges and other perks, an area where Delta and United began investing earlier. At Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, American plans a 37,000-square-foot Admirals Club in Terminal C, along with premium check-in and grab-and-go lounge concepts tied to the airport’s broader redevelopment.

The plan comes as analysts expect American’s adjusted earnings to rise sharply this year and improve further in 2027, according to CNBC. The shift matters because premium travel, loyalty programs and international network strength have become key profit drivers for major U.S. airlines, and American must persuade customers that its expanded scale can translate into a stronger, higher-value experience.