Now full lie-flat business seats on American’s widebody jets

American Airlines has announced it will be spending $2 billion on new aircrafts, upgraded cabins and state-of-the-art in-flight entertainment systems in 2015 and beyond.

The announcement marks the airline’s first anniversary of its merger with US Airways, which has also transformed it into the world’s largest airline group.

Doug Parker, CEO and Chairman of American Airlines Group, said that the company is on course to acquire 112 new aircrafts, equip the first class and business class cabins with more full lie-flat seats and provide every seat with charging ports. The Admirals Club lounges being operated by the airline will also be remodeled and the customers will be offered upgraded menu as well throughout its network.

Parker said that the airline added about 100 aircrafts in its fleet in 2014 and is ready to include another 112 aircrafts in 2015. He further said that another 84 aircrafts will be included in the fleet in 2016. The airline’s fleet includes various types of aircrafts such as Boeing 787 Dreamliners, Boeing 777-300ERs, Boeing 737 MAX, Airbus A350-900s and Airbus A320s.

The airline will upgrade various cabins on its Boeing 757 and Boeing 767-300 aircrafts. All the Boeing 777-200 aircrafts and 90 Airbus A319 aircrafts will also be completely overhauled. The airline also indicated that all its seats in first class and business class cabins on widebody jets would be equipped with fully lie-flat seats and also provide direct aisle access. Further, the Boeing 777-200 aircrafts will feature a dramatic archway, new lighting and a walk-up bar.

Parker said that the new plans are being implemented to help American Airlines cope up with the increased competition on international routes being currently posed by Middle East carriers such as Emirates Airline, which is offering private pods and excellent service to its premium customers.