American Airlines already has over 900 aircraft in its mainline fleet, making it one of the largest in the world. However, that isn't stopping the airline from continuing to grow its fleet size. In 2020, American anticipates taking on 53 additional aircraft. Let's see what new planes the airline will take in 2020.

What new aircraft will American take on in 2020?

American is expecting the following aircraft deliveries this year according to an airline disclosure:

  • 1 Airbus A319
  • 18 Airbus A321neos
  • 22 Boeing 737 MAX aircraft
  • 12 Boeing 787-8s

The Airbus A319

American will take on one used Airbus A319. This is the smallest version of the A320 family that American operates. American's A319s have 128 seats. 8 in First Class, 24 in Main Cabin Extra, and 96 in the Main Cabin. First Class is in a 2-2 configuration while Main Cabin Extra and Main Cabin seats are in a standard 3-3 configuration.

American A319
It will be rolled out first for domestic itineraries. Photo: Getty Images

The Airbus A321neo

American's A321neos are relatively new. In fact, the airline only took its first A321neo in 2019. By the end of 2019, the carrier had 12 A321neos in its fleet. Onboard the new, fuel-efficient jet, customers will find 20 First Class seats in a 2-2 configuration, as well as 47 Main Cabin Extra seats in a 3-3 configuration, and 129 Main Cabin seats in a 3-3 configuration for a total capacity of 196 seats. Do note, however, that these seats lack personal, on-demand seatback screens.

American new plane A321neo
American Airlines has 14 A321neos now and will receive 18 new Airbus A321neo aircraft this year. Photo: American Airlines

The Boeing 737 MAX

Perhaps no aircraft is currently as controversial as the Boeing 737 MAX. This aircraft is currently grounded around the world after two fatal crashes. Boeing is working on a fix and expects to have the plane re-certified to fly by mid-2020. However, the 737 MAX grounding is starting to take its toll on American as the airline now has to withdraw four regional jets early.

American Airlines 737 MAX
The move will make the 737-800s operationally similar to the MAX. Photo: Getty Images

Currently, American anticipates receiving 22 MAX aircraft in 2020. However, this will largely depend on how regulators and Boeing work with the aircraft. The airline will not take any new MAX aircraft until after regulators recertify the aircraft.

Once the aircraft is back in service, customers can expect 16 First Class seats in a 2-2 configuration, 30 Main Cabin Extra seats in a 3-3 configuration, and 126 Main Cabin seats also in a 3-3 configuration for a total capacity of 172 customers. Like the A321neo, however, passengers will not have on-demand seatback entertainment. But, American does have power outlets on board for customers to charge up inflight.

The Boeing 787-8

Some of the most anticipated new planes in American's fleet will be 12 Boeing 787-8 aircraft. These are expected to be special aircraft with a new onboard business class product.

American 787-8
The 12 new Boeing 787-8s will be an exciting addition to American's fleet. Photo: Boeing

Overall

Aircraft delivery schedules are not set in stone. Airbus is facing delivery delays on A321neos while Boeing's 737 MAX grounding has no firm end date yet. Thus, the number of new planes American takes in 2020 can vary. However, without these new aircraft, American would not be able to retire older aircraft and strive toward achieving greater fuel efficiency.

Which of these new American planes are you most excited to fly on? Let us know in the comments!