American Airlines has announced that it expects a significant boost in revenue for the year 2024, with 80% of its earnings projected to be driven by its loyalty program members and passengers who purchase more expensive tickets. This marks an increase from the 70% share these segments contributed to the airline's revenue in 2017.

To cater to high-spending travelers, American and other carriers have invested billions of dollars into enhancing their cabins, lounges, and onboard offerings. Delta Air Lines, American's rival, has also emphasized the growth of premium revenue, with an increasing share in overall sales compared to tickets sold in the coach cabin.

American Airlines, during its first investor day in over six years, further revealed plans to expand its domestic first-class seats on older aircraft. As part of fleet revamp efforts, the carrier will retrofit older Airbus planes to increase the size of their first-class cabins. In addition, American announced the order of 260 new Boeing, Airbus, and Embraer planes.

The airline's revenue forecast includes the consideration of "premium content" tickets, which are priced higher than the cheapest offerings. American expects to achieve pretax margin growth in the coming years and reduce its debt load. As part of this financial strategy, the carrier is renegotiating its credit card agreements with partners Citi and Barclays.

American and other airlines have shifted their loyalty programs to reward customers based on their spending instead of just their distance flown. This change has also led to higher spending requirements for elite status. Vasu Raja, American's chief commercial officer, highlighted that the contract renegotiations would generate increased revenue for the airline.

While the airline declined to provide specific profit or revenue forecasts for the first quarter or the full year, analysts polled by LSEG (formerly known as Refinitiv) have projected earnings per share of $2.56 and revenue of $54.97 billion for the year 2024.

American Airlines' shares declined by over 4% in afternoon trading after the announcement. The airline remains focused on strategic growth and financial stability, aiming to cater to the evolving demands of high-spending travelers while capitalizing on the potential of its loyalty program and premium ticket sales.