How do I use American Airlines in-flight entertainment?
On American Airlines you either watch on a seatback screen, if your seat has one, or stream to your own phone, tablet or laptop over the plane's Wi-Fi. For your own device, turn on airplane mode, switch Wi-Fi back on, join the AA-Inflight network and open aainflight.com; the movies and TV shows there are free to stream. What's available depends on the aircraft, as of 2026.
Watching on your own device
- Before the flight: charge your device and install or update the American Airlines app, since some content may require it on phones and tablets.
- On board: turn on airplane mode, then turn Wi-Fi back on.
- Connect to the AA-Inflight network.
- If the portal doesn't open by itself, go to aainflight.com in your browser.
- Choose free entertainment, pick a movie or show and press play. Use your own headphones.
Free entertainment streams from a server on the plane, so it works even if you don't buy internet access. Wi-Fi internet (for browsing and your own streaming apps) is a separate product; check the app or portal for current options and prices.
Watching on a seatback screen
Many long-haul and some newer domestic aircraft have personal screens. Just tap the screen to browse. You'll usually need wired headphones with a standard 3.5 mm plug; if yours are wireless, bring an inexpensive Bluetooth transmitter or a wired pair. Some newer screens may support Bluetooth pairing.
If it doesn't work
- Forget the network and reconnect, or try a different browser.
- Disable VPNs and content blockers.
- Update the American Airlines app before boarding; app stores may not be reachable in the air without internet access.
- On small or older regional jets there may be no entertainment at all, so download your own shows from your streaming services before you fly.
FAQ
Is American Airlines in-flight entertainment free?
Yes, the movies and TV shows on seatback screens and on aainflight.com are free. Internet access is sold separately.
Do I need wired headphones on American?
For seatback screens, usually yes. When streaming to your own device, any headphones that work with it are fine.
Can AirPods connect to the seatback screen?
Only on screens with Bluetooth support. Otherwise use a Bluetooth adapter that plugs into the headphone jack.
Can I watch Netflix on the plane?
Download titles in the Netflix app before your flight and watch offline. Streaming Netflix live needs paid or loyalty Wi-Fi and may be slow.
Can I connect my phone to the seatback screen?
Generally no. The screen and your device work separately, though some seats have USB ports for charging.