In most states, you must file your complaint or claim in the jurisdiction where the defendant has a business location. An airline generally can be sued in a small claims court in any jurisdiction where it operates flights or has an office.

Yes, you can take American Airlines to small claims court, but it is generally recommended as a final legal resort after attempting to resolve the issue through the airline's customer relations or the Department of Transportation (DOT). Small claims court is suitable for recovering money (typically between $2,500 and $25,000 depending on your state) for issues like breach of contract, lost luggage, or failure to honor a refund policy. Before filing, you must ensure the airline does business in that jurisdiction and you must provide a "letter of demand" detailing your grievance. In 2026, it is important to remember that federal laws often preempt state laws regarding aviation service and safety, so your claim should be strictly focused on contractual or financial disputes found in the airline's "Contract of Carriage." Small claims is an affordable, informal way to seek justice without a lawyer, but you must be prepared to present evidence like tickets, receipts, and correspondence.