American Airlines will completely gut and redesign the interiors of its older 737 aircraft in an effort to appeal to leisure and corporate travelers.
According to ABC News, the carrier is currently in the process of completely overhauling 76 of its older planes. The planes, which average about eight years in service, are being updated to include modern amenities.
One of the improvements, free Wi-Fi, is aimed at American business travel customers, who may have chosen other carriers that have offered the service. Another – flatscreen LCD TVs – are targeted more at leisure travelers interested in entertainment prospects.
“We want to make sure all of the bells and whistles are provided,” Brian Trujillo, American’s 737 project manager, told the news source.
Both segments will benefit from double the amount of space for carry-ons, thanks to more spacious overhead bins with outwardly curved doors. And while the carrier plans to up the seat count from 148 to 160, it says most passengers won’t notice, thanks to the elimination of rear galleys and a new seat that allows for a variety of comfort settings.