American Airlines has taken a significant step to enhance the travel experience for passengers facing the frustrations of missed flight connections. Launching its innovative short-hold technology in early 2025, the airline aims to provide a solution to the common challenges encountered at busy US airports. This system allows select connecting flights to wait a few extra minutes for late-arriving passengers, thereby enabling a smoother transition to their final destinations.
The short hold system is powered by advanced AI technology, which processes real-time flight data, assesses passenger connection times, and evaluates aircraft schedules along with crew availability. This operational mechanism identifies at-risk connections and determines whether a brief delay would keep operations running smoothly without causing further disruptions.
Originally tested at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) in May 2025, the positive outcomes led to the expansion of the short hold service to several major airports across the United States by December 2025, including Charlotte Douglas (CLT), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), Miami International (MIA), Philadelphia International (PHL), Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX), and Los Angeles International (LAX).
However, the program has yet to reach New York’s JFK Airport, a significant hub for international travel. American Airlines operates key routes from JFK, including weekly flights to New Delhi, India. Industry experts suggest that New York travelers may see the benefits of the short hold program by 2026.
The short hold technology addresses the pressing need for efficient connections, especially during busy travel seasons and global events, such as the FIFA World Cup 2026. Passengers whose connecting flights are at risk of being delayed will receive automated notifications, allowing them to stay informed about their travel plans.
Though the program doesn’t promise that every delayed flight will wait for late passengers, its implementation indicates a shift towards a more passenger-centric approach, helping to alleviate the stress caused by tight connections. This thoughtful initiative marks an important stride for American Airlines in enhancing air travel experiences and emphasizes the airline’s commitment to adapting to the needs of its customers.