As winter approaches, American Airlines is charting a bold course in international travel, unveiling an expansive seasonal network that strengthens U.S. connections to Latin America, the Caribbean, and key leisure destinations in Mexico. With new nonstop routes and increased frequencies launching in late 2025 and early 2026, travelers seeking sunshine, culture, and convenience this holiday season have more choices than ever before.

This surge in service is part of American’s broader strategy to dominate the winter travel market. While some carriers scale back, American is adding depth to its operations from major hubs like Chicago O’Hare, Philadelphia, and Miami. The expansion aligns with the airline’s vision of becoming the go-to carrier for warm-weather getaways and reflects growing demand across key tourist regions.

Let’s break down what travelers can expect from American’s latest network growth, why it matters, and how you can take advantage of these new routes.

 New Routes From Chicago: Gateway to Mexico and Central America

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is gaining significant ground as a winter launchpad for sun-bound travelers. Beginning October 26, 2025, American Airlines will launch daily direct flights from Chicago to Mexico City (MEX), Mexico’s bustling capital and a cultural powerhouse renowned for its world-class cuisine, museums, historic architecture, and dynamic neighborhoods.

Following that, from December 18, 2025, through January 5, 2026, American will offer seasonal daily service to Queretaro (QRO). Nestled in Mexico’s colonial heartland, Queretaro is a fast-rising alternative to the traditional winter hotspots. With its UNESCO-listed historic center, nearby vineyards, and close proximity to San Miguel de Allende, this city offers a mix of heritage and modern luxury that is attracting savvy travelers looking for something off the beaten path.

These additions bring American’s total winter destinations from Chicago to over 20, reinforcing the airline’s commitment to expanding access to Latin America from the Midwest.

 Philadelphia Expands Caribbean Connectivity

Travelers on the East Coast will see a major boost in Caribbean access, particularly out of Philadelphia International Airport (PHL). Beginning December 18, 2025, American Airlines will inaugurate daily nonstop service to Santo Domingo (SDQ), the capital of the Dominican Republic.

Santo Domingo is not only the oldest European-established city in the Americas but also a growing urban destination with a vibrant arts scene, colonial-era architecture, and a fast-growing culinary reputation. With this new link, Philadelphia becomes a stronger gateway to the Caribbean, meeting increasing demand for warm-weather escapes during the Northeast’s harsh winter months.

American is also enhancing service to other Caribbean destinations from Philadelphia on the same date:

• Aruba (AUA): Increased to two daily flights
• San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU): Increased to three daily flights
• St. Maarten (SXM): Upgraded from weekly to daily service

Altogether, American will serve 14 Caribbean destinations from Philadelphia this winter, offering more than 20 peak-day departures during the high season.

Miami Solidifies Its Role as the Regional Powerhouse

Miami International Airport (MIA) continues to be American’s largest international hub, especially for routes into Latin America and the Caribbean. This winter, the airline will operate a record-breaking 415 daily departures from Miami, including over 170 flights to 73 regional destinations.

From December 18, 2025, to January 5, 2026, American will temporarily boost frequencies on several high-demand Caribbean and Central American routes. Some of the notable increases include:

• Dominica (DOM): 2 daily flights
• Ocho Rios, Jamaica (OCJ): 2 daily flights
• Kingston, Jamaica (KIN): 4 daily flights
• Marsh Harbour, Bahamas (MHH): 3 daily flights
• North Eleuthera, Bahamas (ELH): 3 daily flights
• San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU): 7 daily flights
• Santiago, Dominican Republic (STI): 3 daily flights
• Tortola, British Virgin Islands (EIS): 5 daily flights

These frequencies position Miami as the most connected U.S. city to the Caribbean, ensuring travelers have access to both popular and under-the-radar destinations with flexible schedules.

Industry Insights: Why This Expansion Matters

American Airlines’ aggressive winter network growth is not just about adding flights,  it’s a strategic play in a competitive market. With travel rebounding post-pandemic and more Americans prioritizing leisure travel, especially during the holidays, airlines are shifting their focus from business-heavy routes to high-yield vacation corridors.

According to Airline Weekly, leisure travel demand across Latin America and the Caribbean is expected to grow 9% year-over-year in Q4 2025, with destinations in the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and Mexico leading the surge. American’s expansion caters directly to this trend, ensuring it captures both traditional travelers and those seeking unique cultural experiences in emerging destinations.

Philippe Puech, American’s Director of International Network Planning, emphasized this strategy, stating:

“American is giving travelers more options to get away this winter, and we are thrilled to offer customers more new routes and flights to popular destinations.”

Tips for Planning Your Winter Escape

If you're considering booking a warm-weather getaway this holiday season, here are a few smart travel tips to take advantage of American’s expanded network:

1. Book Early

Holiday travel is always competitive. Booking your flights early increases your chances of securing better fares, preferred flight times, and seat selections  especially to popular destinations like San Juan or Cancun.

2. Use the American Airlines App

The airline’s mobile app offers a seamless travel experience, allowing you to check in, track bags, view gate changes, and receive real-time updates ,  a must during winter travel season when weather disruptions can occur.

3. Check Entry Requirements

While many countries have eased pandemic-related entry rules, always confirm the latest passport, visa, or vaccination requirements for your destination before you travel.

4. Travel Light

Carry-on luggage not only saves time at the airport but also helps you avoid the stress of lost bags. For beach vacations, light clothing and travel-size toiletries make packing a breeze.

5. Explore Lesser-Known Gems

Avoid the crowds and discover hidden treasures. Cities like Queretaro, Dominica, and Tortola offer immersive experiences without the tourist crush of Cancun or San Juan.

Economic Impact: Boosting Local Economies

Airlines play a crucial role in shaping regional economies, especially in tourism-dependent destinations. American’s expanded service will likely result in increased hotel bookings, restaurant activity, tour participation, and shopping in local markets.

Tourism boards in Aruba, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic have already praised American’s network growth, calling it a "timely boost for the local travel economy" during a season that historically generates up to 40% of annual tourism revenue.

Moreover, the additional service supports airport operations, creates new jobs, and reinforces airport-city partnerships focused on long-term tourism development.

Looking Forward: What’s Next for American Airlines?

This winter’s flight additions are just one chapter in American’s long-term growth story. The airline has hinted at further route announcements in early 2026, especially from its Dallas-Fort Worth and Phoenix hubs.

American is also continuing to invest in modernizing its fleet and improving in-flight experiences, including enhanced Wi-Fi, new premium cabins, and expanded entertainment offerings  part of its strategy to appeal to both economy travelers and premium customers heading to sunny destinations.

Reservations Now Open

If you’re ready to plan your winter getaway, reservations for these new and expanded routes opened July 14, 2025, on the American Airlines website and mobile app. With more daily departures than ever, flexible itineraries, and access to both major hubs and hidden gems, American Airlines is positioning itself as a leader in holiday travel across the Americas.

American Airlines’ winter 2025–2026 expansion isn’t just a network update,  it’s a statement. In a post-pandemic travel environment where flexibility, variety, and value matter more than ever, American is stepping up with a diversified route map that appeals to families, solo travelers, adventure seekers, and luxury vacationers alike.

Whether you're escaping the cold, visiting family, or discovering a new culture, American’s enhanced schedule gives you more ways to book, board, and bask in the warmth of Latin America and the Caribbean.