American Airlines has made a strategic choice to focus its operations along the East Coast, operating significant hubs from New York City down to Florida. This approach contrasts with its limited West Coast presence, where it maintains only a small hub at Los Angeles International Airport. While both Delta Air Lines and United Airlines have established multiple hubs on the West Coast, American Airlines has invested in building its extensive network along the Atlantic Coast.
A central question facing American Airlines is why it has chosen to develop so many hubs on the East Coast, deviating from the more balanced geographical distribution of hubs seen in its peer airlines. American Airlines operates six hubs along the East Coast, more than either of its main competitors. These hubs are part of a broader strategy to improve connectivity and compete in a crowded market.
Miami International Airport (MIA) is a pivotal hub for American Airlines, serving as a crucial link to Latin American destinations. The airport has shown growth spurred by increased travel demand post-pandemic. Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) serves as an important hub for international routes and attracts many business travelers.