Fort Worth-based American Airlines, which claims to be the world’s largest airline, expects to carry more than 8 million customers during its Thanksgiving travel period, with plans for its largest single day of flying since the pandemic fallout.
American and its regional partners expect to operate nearly 85,000 flights from November 19 through December 1, up 4% from 2025. The airline announced plans for 7,021 flights on Sunday, November 29, the peak day on its holiday schedule.
The projections cover American’s global network and its regional partners, rather than Dallas Fort Worth International Airport alone.
“Thanksgiving is about bringing people closer to family, friends and traditions,” American Chief Operating Officer David Seymour said in the company’s release.
American said employees have spent months preparing for the holiday rush, adjusting schedules and resources and strengthening the technology that supports its operations.
At 11 a.m. Central on November 20, 29 and 30, the airline expects to have 1,130 flights operating simultaneously. American said nearly 500 people staff its Integrated Operations Center at any given time to support the network.
The holiday schedule includes the 8,299-mile route between DFW Airport and Brisbane, Australia, as well as shorter flights such as the 64-mile trip between Miami and Bimini in the Bahamas.
What travelers can expect
American highlighted several services available during the holiday period, including an app feature that allows eligible AAdvantage members to set seat preferences and automatically move when a preferred seat becomes available.
The airline said AAdvantage members can access free high-speed Wi-Fi, sponsored by AT&T, on nearly every American flight. Customers can also save $5 on eligible checked bags by paying ahead through the airline’s website or app.
American urged customers to check in through its app, monitor flight status before leaving for the airport and allow extra time for crowded terminals and security checkpoints. Travelers can also use the app to track checked bags and receive travel updates.
Eligible travelers at participating airports can use TSA PreCheck Touchless ID, according to the airline.
American’s flight and passenger totals remain projections for the upcoming holiday period. The announcement outlines its operating plans rather than completed travel results.
