American Airlines was left red-faced this week after accidentally telling its customers they'd never have to pay for a seat again.
Many of the airline's nearly 2 million Twitter followers were excited at what appeared to be an offer of free flights for the rest of their days.
The official Twitter account of American Airlines stated: "You never have to pay for a seat. Our team will help you with free seats if you arrive at the airport without."
But it was an error.
As an American Airlines spokesperson told Travel + Leisure the tweet was not meant to be broadcast to the entire world, but rather a direct response to a customer who had a question about the availability of advanced seat assignments.
"We were actually replying to a customer that had a question about seat assignments on American Airlines," the spokesperson said.
"Our reply inadvertently left off the Twitter handle of the person who had asked the original question."
The tweet was up for about an hour before being taken down.
Seat assignments are complimentary for American Airlines passengers in select fare classes, but those flying basic economy must pay extra to select their seats in advance.
Newshub.
