Now, all the full-service carriers, with the exception of United, are flying that route for $983 one-way.

Airlines like EasyJet have been taking away both economy and business travelers from full-service carriers.

Both airlines have simpler fare structures than the full-service carriers.

Routes run by the full-service carriers might not meet the criteria set by the low-cost airlines.

The prices steadily rise thereafter to a point where they can be comparable or more expensive than a flight on a full-service carrier.

However, it cannot provide the breadth of services that consumers demand from full-service carriers.

Given that American is the industry's 800-pound gorilla, other full-service carriers will be asking themselves whether they should follow.

They argue that such a breakthrough is necessary if American is to lead the full-service carriers from their dependence on the economic cycle.

The airline is a full-service carrier and offers three class service cabins on board its aircraft.

Over the last year, the airline has more than doubled its capacity, while most of the full-service carriers have cut back.