American Isn't a Premium Airline — By Design

The airline is staking its future on its network and its loyalty program, chief commercial officer Vasu Raja emphatically said this week at an investor day.

Dear readers,

Periodically, I receive messages from subscribers asking why I say only two U.S. airlines are pursuing a premium strategy. Surely, they allege, I must have a vendetta against American Airlines. Perhaps flight attendants failed to warm my mixed nuts the last time I flew in first class? Or maybe I'm tired of waiting for my interview with chie…