Key Takeaways:
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American Airlines offers more extensive routes, premium services, and international options, while Southwest is known for budget-friendly fares, free checked bags, and no change fees.
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American’s AAdvantage program provides elite status benefits and global airline alliances, whereas Southwest’s Rapid Rewards excels in easy redemptions and flexible travel perks.
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Choose American Airlines for premium and international travel; opt for Southwest for domestic trips with flexible policies and cost-effective pricing.
When it comes to American Airlines vs. Southwest, both offer unique perks that cater to different types of travelers.
So, if you’re confused between Southwest and American Airlines, this guide is for you.
American is known for its extensive network and premium services, while Southwest is celebrated for its low fares and outstanding customer service and policies.
Join us as we help you decide which airline is best for your needs – Southwest or American Airlines!
Where do they fly – Routes and Destinations
American Airlines, based in Fort Worth, Texas, is one of the ‘Big Three’ U.S. airlines. It boasts an expansive network of destinations, flying to 350 locations in 63 countries.
Southwest Airlines, headquartered in Dallas, mostly serves the United States but has extended its international routes in recent years. It now operates at 121 airports across 11 countries.
The airlines’ primary hub cities include:
American Airlines Airports
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Charlotte
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Chicago-O’Hare
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Dallas-Fort Worth
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Los Angeles
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Miami
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New York-John F. Kennedy
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Philadelphia
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Phoenix
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Washington-National
Southwest Airlines Airports
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Atlanta
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Chicago-Midway
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Denver
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Houston-Hobby
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Nashville
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Oakland
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Phoenix
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St. Louis
For those wondering, Is American Airlines better than Southwest? Well, for fleet size definitely yes, as the American possesses a larger number of aircraft than the Southwest Airlines.
With over 960 aircraft in its fleet, American Airlines covers a wide range of destinations globally.
On the other hand, Southwest Airlines has a fleet size of over 800, primarily consisting of Boeing 737 aircraft and catering to approximately 4,000 flights every day!
Understanding the flexibility of your chosen airline is crucial, especially for spontaneous travelers or those who often make changes to their plans.
Southwest Airlines shines out in this scenario, offering swift rebooking on the next available flight in case of flight disruptions.
It also adjusts the fare difference for a more expensive journey or offers credit for a cheaper one if your travel plans change.
While American Airlines offers a vast network and widespread alliances, Southwest stands for its flexibility and customer-friendly policies – many travelers also benefit from Southwest low fare calendar.
Southwest Rapid Rewards vs. American AAdvantage : Airline Loyalty Programs
For frequent travelers looking to maximize their benefits, airline rewards programs play a significant role in selecting an airline.
American AAdvantage program has four elite status levels based on Loyalty Points earned every year, AA Gold to AA Executive Platinum, providing perks like complimentary upgrades, airport lounge access, and free checked bags.
Members earn miles as per their ticket price and redeem them for various rewards, such as awards tickets and upgrades.
Southwest Rapid Rewards program features two elite tiers: A-List Status and A-List Preferred Status. It offers perks like priority boarding, bonus miles, premium drinks, Free same-day change, etc. Rapid Rewards’ unique perk is the coveted Companion Pass, allowing frequent flyers to bring a guest for free!
Southwest members can earn and redeem Rapid Rewards based on their fare price.
Airline Fees and Pricing
One key factor that influences travelers’ decision between Southwest vs. American Airlines is pricing.
American Airlines follows a traditional airline fee structure, where travelers without elite status or co-branded American Airlines credit cards incur additional charges.
This means you’ll have to pay extra if you check a bag or choose your preferred seating.
American Airlines baggage fees include $35 for the first bag (if paid online), $45 for the second checked bag, $150 for the third, and $200 for any additional ones.
Southwest Airlines is well-known for its transparent pricing, with no change fees or baggage fees on most fares. This straightforward strategy appeals to budget-conscious travelers looking to avoid hidden costs.
All passengers enjoy two free checked bags along with no change or cancellation fees.
Note that each bag should meet the weight and size limit, typically 50 lbs and 62 inches.
You will be charged $125 on the way for any extra bags beyond these two. Plus, Southwest does not assign seats, so there’s no extra cost for seat selection.
American Airlines' Fare Classes | Southwest Airlines' Fare Tiers |
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Basic Economy |
Wanna Get Away (most affordable) |
Main Cabin |
Anytime (mid-tier) |
Main Cabin Extra |
Business Select (top-tier) |
Premium Economy |
|
Business Class |
|
First Class |
When comparing American Airlines vs Southwest, Southwest Airlines is a clear winner in the airline fees category – renowned for its fee-free approach.
However, American offers various fare options to choose from, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Travel Credit Card Offerings
You need to consider several factors while comparing Southwest vs. American to determine which travel rewards card is better suited for your preferences and travel habits.
These airline-specific credit cards offer perks like free checked bags, translating to significant savings.
American Airlines offers 6 co-branded travel credit cards issued by Citi and Barclays.
Each card comes with its own benefits, from complimentary Admiral Club membership to priority boarding. Some of American Airlines’ personal co-branded cards include:
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American Airlines AAdvantage® MileUp® Mastercard®
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Citi® / AAdvantage® Platinum Select® World Elite Mastercard®
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Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
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American Airlines AAdvantage® Aviator® Red Credit Card
For business travelers, there’s a popular CitiBusiness / AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard card.
On the other hand, Southwest Airlines has a selection of 5 co-branded travel cards issued in partnership with Chase.
It provides customers with three personal and two business credit card options.
The benefits offered by these cards vary from Early Bird Check-ins to the perk of a coveted Companion Pass. Popular Southwest Airlines card choices are:
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Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Credit Card
For business travelers, Southwest has a lineup of co branded cards including:
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Southwest Rapid Rewards® Performance Business Credit Card
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Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Business Credit Card
American Airlines vs. Southwest : Which is better and why?
American Airlines caters more to customers seeking diverse global connectivity while Southwest Airlines appeals more to domestic travelers looking for budget-friendly options, an attractive Southwest transfer points and points value as well as exceptional customer service.
Is American Airlines better than Southwest? Yes, because it excels in most categories with significant perks and benefits when you earn American Airlines Elite Status, but the best airline for you depends on your travel habits and needs.
If you carry a lot of luggage or mainly travel within the United States, Southwest could be more suitable due to its generous baggage policies and domestic network.
However, if you value additional perks or planning an international trip, American Airlines might offer a more rewarding experience.
Criteria for Comparison | American Airlines vs. Delta : Which is better and why? |
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1. Routes and Destinations |
⭐American Airlines – It has a more extensive global network with a bigger fleet size. |
2. Airline Loyalty Program |
⭐American Airlines – AAdvantage program partners with various other airlines, providing more opportunities to earn and redeem miles. Also, it boasts elite status perks. |
3. Airline Fees and Pricing |
⭐Southwest Airlines – It has a more transparent pricing model, covering for your two checked bags. |
4. Travel Credit Cards |
⭐(Tie) Southwest and American Airlines – Both airlines offer competitive travel rewards credit cards with excellent rewards and benefits. |
5. Safety Record |
⭐(Tie) Southwest and American Airlines – Both airlines are equally reliable choices for air travel |
6. In-Flight Experience |
⭐American Airlines – For a luxurious flying experience Southwest Airlines – For budget-conscious travelers |
7. Customer Service |
⭐Southwest Airlines – Ranks high on customer satisfaction with a reputation for friendly staff |
Bottomline
The choice between American Airlines vs. Southwest depends on individual preferences, such as flight network, pricing, in-flight amenities, customer service, and frequent flyer benefits offered by airline loyalty programs.
American Airlines vs. Southwest FAQs
What airline is better, American or Southwest?
Both American and Southwest Airlines are major carriers in the United States, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.
The better airline between American and Southwest depends on your travel needs and preferences.
American Airlines is known for its extensive route network and premium perks, thanks to its loyalty program.
Southwest offers cost-effective domestic travel, customer-friendly policies like no change fees, and a straightforward rewards program.
Who has bigger seats, Southwest or American Airlines?
Southwest Airlines has bigger seats than American Airlines, where Southwest offers more legroom with a seat pitch of 32 inches, and American provides a seat pitch of 31 inches.
Is American Airlines safe?
Yes, American Airlines is safe for all passengers. It has a strong safety record and adheres to all safety standards set by regulatory authorities.
Is Southwest Airlines safe?
Yes, Southwest Airlines is safe to travel with. The carrier has a great reputation for its commitment to safety protocols, including training for its staff and regular maintenance checks.