In this update, we bring you another round of updates regarding the introduction of the A321H between Los Angeles International (LAX) and Honolulu International (HNL) and improvements we're making to the airport check in process.

Fleet updates 

American to add A321H to Hawaii this August
Customers can now book flights between LAX and HNL on our new Airbus A321H aircraft. Service with the new planes will start on August 18, initially operating two frequencies. The A321H will replace the older Boeing 757s we currently operate on the route. By the end of the year, we'll add the A321H to all flights between LAX and our four Hawaiian destinations: HNL, Kona International (KOA), Lihue (LIH) and Kahului (OGG).

Airport updates

Thousands of new kiosks provide more airport check‑in options
We have replaced 1,800 old kiosks in 250 stations. The new kiosks are more reliable, intuitive to use and easier to service than the previous models. We also have improved passport scanners that will also reduce wait times.

Ease and speed through New York JFK
Automated Passport Control (APC) has been introduced at American Airlines Terminal 8 at JFK.

Customers from Visa Waiver countries, ESTA and Lawful Permanent Residents can more efficiently go through the U.S. Customs and Border Protection process by utilizing a self‑service kiosk.

The service is free and does not require pre-registration or membership.

How does the Automated Passport Control program work?

Customers do not need to fill out a Customs declaration form; they can complete the entire process at the APC kiosks in the passport control area by scanning their passport, taking a photograph and answering a series of questions.

Visa Waiver Program visitors must have Electronic System for Travel Authorizations (ESTA) approval prior to travel and have visited the United States on at least one occasion after 2008.

Partner updates

Welcome extended by Heathrow Terminal 3
British Airways' flights no longer depart from London Heathrow Terminal 1, which closed permanently in June 2015. Previous Terminal 1 departures to Hanover, Luxembourg, Lyon, Bilbao and Marseille now fly from Terminal 3, which will be home to 21 British Airways routes by the end of 2015. Major investment is underway in the terminal to enhance the customer experience, in addition to the existing Galleries Club lounge, Galleries First lounge and Elemis Travel Spa. Previous Terminal 1 services to Amman, Baku, Beirut and Cairo now depart from Heathrow Terminal 5. Customers are advised to check their departure details to ensure they arrive for their flight at the correct terminal.

Japan Airlines brings new food to the table
Japan Airlines has begun offering new and improved vegetarian meal options on select international flights, including all routes between the continental United States and Japan. Working in collaboration with renowned Japanese vegetarian specialists Minna no Gohan, the new meals aim to please the senses with a tapestry of flavors, colors and textures by using original ingredients such as soybean meat, minced konjak and vegetable demi‑glace sauce. Vegetarian and other special meal requests require advanced reservations.