How to File a Complaint With American Airlines | 2025–2026 Step-by-Step Guide

If you’ve recently had a frustrating experience with American Airlines, such as a delayed flight, lost luggage, or poor customer service, you’re not alone. Airline complaints are common, especially during busy travel seasons, and knowing how to properly file a complaint can make the difference between getting ignored and getting a resolution.

This 2025–2026 guide walks you through every step of the process for filing a complaint with American Airlines, whether online, by phone, or through official escalation channels. These procedures have been updated to reflect the most current contact methods and response timelines for 2025–2026.

Quick Contact Options for American Airlines

Before submitting a formal complaint, it’s worth trying direct customer service options. American Airlines offers several ways to reach their team depending on your issue and travel location.

Customer Service Phone: 1-800-433-7300 (U.S. and Canada)

Best hours: Early morning (7 a.m.–10 a.m. CT)

Typical wait time: 10–30 minutes

Live Chat: Available through the American Airlines app or website under “Contact American.”

Social Media:

X (Twitter): @AmericanAir

Facebook: facebook.com/AmericanAirlines

These channels can handle basic issues like flight changes, refunds, or baggage tracking, but for serious complaints, filing an official form ensures your case is properly logged.

How to File a Complaint Online

The easiest and most effective way to file a complaint with American Airlines is through their online Customer Relations Form.

Go to aa.com/contact/forms?topic=CR
.

Select the appropriate topic (refund, baggage, flight issue, etc.).

Fill in your flight details, including confirmation number and travel date.

Attach any supporting documents or receipts.

Write a concise summary of the issue.

Once submitted, you will receive a reference number via email. American Airlines typically responds within 7–14 business days depending on complaint type and volume.

How to File a Complaint by Phone or Email

If you prefer to speak to someone or have an urgent issue, you can call the Customer Relations department directly.

Customer Relations (U.S.): 1-800-433-7300

International: Use the contact list at aa.com/contact
to find your region.

Mailing Address:
American Airlines Customer Relations
4000 E. Sky Harbor Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ 85034

American Airlines does not publish a general email for complaints, but once your online form is submitted, you may receive follow-up via email from a customer service representative.

Escalating Your Complaint

If you’ve submitted your complaint and haven’t received a satisfactory response, you can escalate it through these official channels:

Ask for a Supervisor: When on the phone, request a higher-level representative or supervisor.

Re-contact Customer Relations: Reference your case number to ensure continuity.

Department of Transportation (DOT):

You can file an official complaint with the U.S. Department of Transportation at airconsumer.dot.gov/escomplaint/ConsumerForm.cfm
.

The DOT will review your complaint and forward it to American Airlines for a formal response.

Escalations generally extend the timeline to 30 days but often yield stronger responses, particularly for refund or compensation cases.

Refunds, Compensation, and Travel Credits

Common issues that lead to complaints include canceled flights, denied refunds, or baggage problems. American Airlines has policies in place for most of these situations:

Flight Delays or Cancellations: If caused by the airline, you may be eligible for a refund or travel credit.

Baggage Loss or Damage: File a claim at aa.com/baggage
within 24 hours for domestic flights or 7 days for international flights.

Refund Requests: If you purchased a refundable fare or the airline canceled your flight, request a refund through aa.com/refunds
.

For denied refunds or unclear responses, re-submit your complaint through the Customer Relations form, referencing your previous case.

Tips to Get Faster Resolution

Be detailed and polite. Clear and professional communication gets better results.

Include all necessary information. Flight number, booking ID, and date are essential.

Attach evidence. Screenshots, receipts, and photos help prove your case.

Follow up regularly. If you don’t hear back within 14 days, reply to the same email thread or call customer relations with your reference number.

Conclusion

Filing a complaint with American Airlines in 2025–2026 doesn’t have to be complicated. By following the proper steps—starting with the online complaint form and escalating through official channels if needed—you’ll ensure your issue is logged and reviewed by the right department.

Keep all records of communication and be patient, as resolution times can vary. With persistence and documentation, most travelers find their issues resolved or compensated appropriately.